I'll throw you a bone this one time. Take a deep breath and listen to what they have to say, stay on topic, but keep it casual. Bonus points if you get them to laugh with something clever. If you feel the need to gush over a particular subject, first ask yourself if it's relevant to the conversation, or derailing it. If you play it right and lady luck is on your side, you might come out of it with a few new friends.