It happened so quickly Ted didn’t have time to react. He didn’t want to have a long conversation with Gus from Human Resources, but he and Sandy had a question about retirement planning.
“… don’t you ever wonder if birds get dizzy? It’s an interesting question, right? My scientist niece got a grant from the government to study it…”
Ted stared longingly out the window. Everyone outside looked so free, he thought. Then he remembered to agree and nod.
“… what about trainspotting as a hobby? Kim said it’s a great way to meet new people…”
Ted racked his brain trying to remember who Kim was. He thought about asking. At one point he even attempted to ask, but was unable to break through the wall of noise.
“… so the doctor said the red in my urine was from all the beets I was eating…”
The incessant droning of Gus’ voice was hypnotizing. Ted watched his mouth to see if he was actually breathing. Maybe if Gus passed out I could sneak out, thought Ted.
“… that’s when I was training my dog to hunt truffles…”
Finally Ted grew impatient. He looked at his watch and stood up.
“I’ve got a meeting. I’ll have to catch up with you later.” He was half way out the door before Gus could reply.
In the hallway, Ted bumped into Sandy. “Was he helpful?” she asked.
“Nope,” sighed Ted. “You know, talking to Gus is the conversational equivalent of a tornado. You never know where he’s going but there’s a lot of air whipping around.”
The Pilgrim and The Monk 
Gus reminds me of an acquaintance I have, where you slowly start to “glaze over”!
I think we all have such an acquaintance.