A conversation can be brief and still leave a person feeling properly received.

Being received is about attention, not duration. Two minutes of undivided listening lands better than twenty minutes with someone half elsewhere, and most people can tell the difference immediately. What registers is whether you stopped, looked at them, and took in what they said before answering. Length is a poor substitute for that.

When you have only a moment, spend it properly rather than apologizing for its size. Put the phone down, ask one real question, let the answer finish, and then say honestly that you have to go. A short exchange done fully is a gift; a long one done distractedly is a chore for both of you.