Give the signal
Say that you need to finish
Use a direct line such as “I need to go, but I enjoyed talking with you.” The sentence is complete and does not make the other person guess.
If there is a practical reason, you can mention it briefly. You do not need to build a long excuse.
Close the subject
Reflect one positive detail
Mention the recommendation, story or joke you enjoyed. This shows that the conversation mattered without promising more than you mean.
A specific thank-you feels warmer than a generic exit and gives the final moment a natural shape.
Avoid the fade
Do not disappear in the middle of a reply
Wait for the other person to finish, say goodbye and use the interface when the exchange is clearly closed.
If you do not want another conversation, keep the ending friendly without saying “talk soon.” Clarity is more respectful than a false promise.