Pen Tool shortcut for the convert anchor point will no longer select the handles to change direction

When using the Pen Tool in Illustrator 2024, I use the COMMAND key as a short cut for the Direct Selection and OPTION for the CONVERT anchor point; when using the OPTION shortcut it will not allow me to select the end of a handle and move it. No matter what I do, I cannot select the handle with either the shortcut or selecting the CONVERT anchor point tool. I have to change the point to a corner point, then back to a smooth point to be able to select the one handle to change the direction or edit the corner. This changest he curves and that changes the curve and the shape. I cannot upgrade to 2025 until the office upgrades as controlled by the IT people.