history: My best friend from childhood came into town last week.  We were supposed to get together for dinner one night, but she bailed at the last minute. My best friend from childhood came into town last week and we made dinner plans. Oh_comma_ that sounds like fun! Has it been a long time since you have seen him?
current: We haven't seen each other in years.  Unfortunately he bailed at the last minute.
next: Oh that sucks! He doesn't sound like such a good friend I guess.