history: I thought my best friend was going to be able to visit me this summer, but it turns out he can't take the time off from work right now. 
current: I thought my best friend was going to be able to visit me this summer. But it turns out he can't take the time off from work right now. I'm a bit bummed, as I haven't seen him in a long time.
next: Would you be able to go meet him instead?