Explanation:

This question asks us to choose the correct modal verb to express 'possibility' within a conditional sentence structure. The sentence is: 'I was afraid that if I asked him again, he ................. refuse.' **Understanding the Context:** * **Main Clause (Past):** 'I was afraid that...' sets the context in the past. * **If-clause (Simple Past):** 'if I asked him again' indicates a hypothetical situation in the present or future, viewed from a past perspective. This structure ('if + simple past') is characteristic of a **Second Conditional** sentence. * **Result Clause (Modal for Possibility):** The blank requires a modal that expresses possibility in the result clause of a Second Conditional, following the pattern 'would/could/might + base verb'. The prompt specifically asks for a modal expressing 'Possibility'. Let's analyze each option: **Option (A): might** 'Might' is a modal verb used to express possibility, a weaker degree of certainty, or a conditional outcome. In a Second Conditional structure, 'might + base verb' is perfectly appropriate to express a possible result. 'He might refuse' means there is a possibility that he would refuse. This aligns precisely with the requirement to express 'Possibility' and fits the conditional structure. Therefore, this is the correct choice. **Option (B): should** 'Should' is a modal verb primarily used to express obligation, recommendation, or advice (e.g., 'You should study'). It can also express probability, but it's generally a stronger expectation than 'might'. 'He should refuse' would imply that it is his duty or the right thing for him to refuse, which doesn't fit the speaker's 'fear' of a *possible* refusal. It does not convey simple possibility as requested. **Option (C): must** 'Must' is a modal verb used to express strong obligation, necessity, or logical certainty/deduction (e.g., 'You must go' or 'He must be tired'). 'He must refuse' would imply that he is compelled to refuse or that it is certain he will refuse. This is far too strong for expressing a mere possibility that the speaker is 'afraid' of. It contradicts the idea of 'possibility'. **Option (D): ought to** 'Ought to' is similar to 'should' in expressing moral obligation, duty, or strong advisability (e.g., 'You ought to apologize'). 'He ought to refuse' would mean it is his duty or the right thing for him to refuse, which, like 'should', does not convey simple possibility. It is not suitable for the context of the speaker's fear of a potential outcome. **Conclusion:** Given that the question specifically asks for a modal expressing 'Possibility' within a Second Conditional structure, 'might' is the most appropriate and accurate choice. It correctly conveys the idea of a potential refusal that the speaker is apprehensive about. Therefore, option (A) is the correct answer.