The lunch rush is about to hit, and the car lane at the restaurant's back door is gradually lining up.
Gerry was chatting happily, waiting for the boss's final arrangements before he could head downstairs to join the kitchen prep work.
"Stick to the plan, and push forward based on your judgment of the situation..."
John didn't extinguish Gerry's enthusiasm.
Those at death's door could be fearless, but those still grappling with life needed a glimmer of hope to muster the courage to face the rising sun.
Yet John kept a trump card.
"I need to go on a trip soon. Wait until I return for the restaurant renovation. Save as much money as possible."
John feared Gerry might get too excited and start the renovations swiftly, investing all the restaurant's earnings, and should something happen to him, those coming to take over would reap the benefits.
"If there's trouble and you can't reach me, follow your wife's arrangements; don't be rash. Just stay alive until I return, got it?"
