So what is it that you wanted to see me about, John?
I thought it would be good for us to have a heart-to-heart conversation.
You're unhappy with how things are going, right?
Yes, I am. But I don't want others in the company to know.
I thought we should meet off site.
Okay, so what are you thinking?
To be perfectly frank, I've decided that it doesn't make sense for me to stay with the company.
You're the CEO, but I don't agree with how you're handling things.
I can no longer support you.
Hemm, okay, I've suspected that for quite a while.
I'm still happy to support the company if I can, of course, but I'd like to work elsewhere.
There's a start-up that has contacted me, and I'm planning to join them as soon as I can.
Are you gentlemen ready to order?
No, not yet.
Could you come back in a few minutes?
Certainly, sir.
Well, we're going to miss you.
There's nothing I can say that would change your mind?
No, it's too late for that.
I no longer have confidence in your decisions.
Your latest business plan, for example, makes no sense at all.
It makes us weaker in the areas where we are strong and it takes us into new areas where we can't compete.
Well, that's where we disagree.
So, if that's the way you feel about it, I agree that it's best that you work somewhere else.
Still, I hope we can count on you when we need you for something.
Sure, keep me informed and let me know if and when I can be useful.
I will.
So how do you propose that we should communicate this to the company.
I'll write up something and you can review it.
I'll make it sound as positive as possible.
Okay, thanks.
I'm sure it will come as a shock to many.
Things are already difficult enough.
I know, and maybe I'm wrong.
Maybe your plan will work.
If so, I'll be the first to congratulate you.
Are you ready to order?
Sure, though I don't feel like eating much.
Waiter!
(Under the circumstance, the CEO agrees to let John go, but keep in touch in case they need him.)
(To count on someone means about the same as to rely on them.)
(It's clear that he is going to resign because he no longer supports the CEO.)
(From this exchange it seems as if the CEO realizes that John's departure will make things even more difficult.)