Answer :
Final answer:
The student is asking for a word to complete the sentence and describes their attempt to smile despite being hurt by a tactless comment.
Explanation:
The student is asking for a word to complete the sentence describing how they tried to smile despite being hurt by a tactless comment. The sentence suggests that the smile was feeble or weak, indicating a lack of genuine happiness or pleasure. The correct answer for the missing word in this context is attempt.
The vivid details provided in the question further emphasize the contrast between Mr. Bixby's bland smile and the uproarious laughter of the rest of the group, as well as the narrator's negative feelings.
Learn more about Completing the sentence here:
https://brainly.com/question/696177
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