Play the game

Tabbatha saw Bertrude approaching and so hitched a smile onto her face and mentally prepared herself for the social challenge

‘Hey Bertrude! How are you?‘

‘Grand‘ Bertrude replied failing to recognize the fear in Tabbatha’s widened eyes.

A silent hour stepped in.

‘Good good‘ said Tabbatha stalling, trying to think of anything to say, literally anything will do.

Bertrude stood there, sipping his drink, waiting.

‘Weather’s not been great has it?’ Tabbatha tried hopefully.

‘Yeah‘

Then it came gloriously riding into her brain on a noble steed.

‘Did you become Captain of your sports team recently?‘

A personal fact that she had recalled from the depths of her brain. Surely that would burst the dam!

‘No’ replied Bertrude sharply coupling this with a highly affronted look before trying to melt the wall with a seething stare.

We’ll pause it there.

Now come on Bertrude, Tabbatha is not out to offend you, clearly she is drowning in the awkwardness, thrashing around for anything to cling to.

Play the game mate!

It’s just small talk. Ye are both stalling until you find someone you really want to talk to.