The real test, however, was Jess. She had been quiet most of the night, observing Mark with a critical eye. When Sarah left the room to get more drinks, Jess seized her opportunity.
When Sarah returned, the atmosphere had shifted. The tension was gone, replaced by a warm, welcoming vibe. Mark was no longer the outsider; he was part of the group. They spent the rest of the night laughing, sharing stories, and playing board games. My Girlfriends Friends v1.5
Mark felt a sweat break out. He answered honestly, talking about his passion for graphic design and his hopes to start his own firm. The real test, however, was Jess