Friendship

**Friendship** is the second episode/chapter in A Night to Forget. It premiered November 25, 2023.

## Plot

Following the night at the strip club, Ryan and Carter go to the beach and discuss their forgotten plans of the past and new ones for the future. After going out for breakfast, Carter meets a cute new girl.

## Featured Characters

### Main Cast

* Ryan Vaughn
* Carter Reeves

## Transcript

You3 hours ago

Chapter 2 starts. Carter sleeps peacefully, at some point he'd fully pulled himself into the bed. He is snoring quietly when Ryan awakens.

Ryan3 hours ago

"Ugh... What happened last night?" Ryan groaned, rubbing his temples as he struggled to piece together the fragments of his memories. The haze of alcohol and the lingering echoes of Aisha's presence seemed to swirl around him, taunting him with the knowledge of his indiscretions.

You3 hours ago

Carter continues to lay there. As Ryan focuses in on the world, he hears the quiet snores of his best friend. Carter is sleeping like a baby.

Ryan3 hours ago

"Carter?" Ryan whispered, his voice barely audible even to his own ears. As he cautiously moved closer, he couldn't help but notice the peaceful expression on Carter's face, a stark contrast to the turmoil that churned within his own soul.

You3 hours ago

Bzzt. Bzzt. Ryan's phone buzzes as Bethany sends him a good morning text and updates him on some part of their mundane lives. Carter rolls over and mindlessly rubs his nose and smacks his lips in his sleep. He snuggles a pillow.

Ryan3 hours ago

Ryan's heart caught in his throat as he stared at the text from Bethany, the tendrils of guilt and shame tightening their hold upon him. He couldn't bring himself to reply, the words catching in his throat as he struggled to find a way to reconcile the man he had become with the person he had once been. He turns back to Carter... Swallowing any guilt for now, he puts the memory of Aisha on the backburner. He slowly picks up a pillow and raises it above his head....

You3 hours ago

Carter is slapped on the face by the pillow, "AYEEE!" He screeches and flops out of the side of the bed, slamming onto the floor with a loud thud. He quickly stands up and says, "HEY!" Before snatching and throwing his own pillow at Ryan.

Ryan3 hours ago

"Just testing my arm strength," Ryan grinned, ducking the incoming pillow as he continued to wrestle with the memories of the night before.

You3 hours ago

Carter sighs, "I was having the nicest dream..." the tent in his pants very telling of just how nice it was. Carter yawns and aims his arms toward the ceiling as he stretches, his shirt lifting ever so slightly to reveal the slight overhang of his pale belly. He rubs his eyes and says, "Well what a way to say good morning..." He chuckles a bit and puts his hands on his hips, "You sleep alright?"

Ryan3 hours ago

"Yeah, I guess," Ryan replied evasively, his eyes darting away from Carter's unconsciously revealing belly as he tried to suppress the memories that threatened to overwhelm him. "So, uh... What time do you want to head out today?"

You3 hours ago

Carter shrugs, "What time is it now?" He looks at the timestamp on his phone, seeing it's 8:30am. He returns his gaze to Ryan, "We could grab breakfast and then head to the beach for the day? Or we could hit up the casino? It's your weekend, you can pick." Carter walks to the bathroom to pee and brush his teeth. Ryan and Carter are close enough that neither of them bothers to shut the door when they're in there, so the sound of Carter's pee echoing off the bowl can be faintly heard.

Ryan3 hours ago

"Yeah, that sounds good," Ryan said with a nonchalant nod, trying to push the memories of Aisha from his mind as he followed Carter into the bathroom. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt as he watched his friend unknowingly groom himself for another day of brotherly bonding, the knowledge of his own betrayal gnawing at the edges of his conscience.

You3 hours ago

Carter brushes his teeth as his ears are filled with the sound of Ryan peeing, Carter slips his gaze slightly more toward Ryan... He can see the pale tone his Ryan's dick out of his peripheral vision. He's never had a good look in person... 'it's right there...' Carter thinks to himself. He thinks back to the video from last night, remembering how he beat off in the bathroom while he watched it - seeing Ryan fucking Aisha... Carter's dick twitches to life in his pants and Carter adjusts his leg to hide it. "So...?" Carter breaks the silence.

Ryan3 hours ago

"So, what?" Ryan asked, his voice betraying none of the turmoil that churned within him. He couldn't help but feel the weight of his indiscretions heavy upon him as he stared into the eyes of his best friend, the unknowing victim of his own betrayal.

You3 hours ago

Carter glances over at him, Ryan's dick is almost fully in view... but Carter wont give into his bi-curious desire. He can't... he keeps his eyes on Ryan's face. "Dude." Carter rolls his eyes and snickers, "So... The beach or the casino, dude? You didn't answer me before."

Ryan3 hours ago

"Uh... beach, I guess," Ryan said hesitantly, his mind racing as he tried to piece together the fragments of the night before and the memories of Aisha that haunted him. "I could use some time in the sun, you know?"

You2 hours ago

Carter nods, "Oh believe me, I know." He grins, holding his toothbrush in the side of his mouth, "You're just a bit pasty." Carter is one to talk.. He's not anymore tan than Ryan. Both of them are pretty pale. Carter spits into the sink, rinsing it out.

Ryan2 hours ago

"Yeah, well, you know me," Ryan said with a laugh. He decides to ignore his betrayal, not letting the guilt get to him. He's here to have a good time and he will.

You2 hours ago

Carter grabs his swim trunks and changes into them. He pulls a button up shirt on, leaving the top 2 buttons undone. He slips his crocs shoes on and plops a yellow baseball cap on his head. He grabs the sunscreen and a towel and says, "I'm ready to boogie."

Ryan2 hours ago

Ryan follows Carter's lead, changing into his own swim trunks and pulling on a simple T-shirt. He hesitates for a moment before deciding against wearing any sunscreen, preferring to let the sun darken his already pale skin. He grabs a pair of sneakers and a hat to match Carter's before grinning and replying, "Me too, let's go have some fun."

You2 hours ago

"You're gonna get burnt, dude." Carter says, noting Ryan's lack of sunscreen. They head out of the hotel together.

Ryan2 hours ago

"Maybe, but I'll be having fun," Ryan replied with a shrug, his mind still reeling from the memories of the night before and the guilt that threatened to engulf him. He knew that he couldn't let the past hold him back, that he had to focus on the present and the future. And so, with a determined stride, he and Carter made their way to the beach, ready to embrace the day and all its possibilities.

You2 hours ago

Ryan and Carter arrive at the beach, which is already filling out with people. Carter drops his stuff in a good spot and says, "RACE YOU TO THE WATER!" he then runs toward the ocean.

Ryan2 hours ago

"Alright, but I'm not wearing any sunscreen, so you better hurry," Ryan grinned, his eyes fixed on the horizon as he raced after his friend.

You2 hours ago

Carter is confused as to why Ryan said that and makes his way down to the shore quickly! He takes a running jump and belly flops into the shallow water. He crawls along the sandy bottom, pushing himself out to where the water is about shoulder height. He resurfaces and says, "Ahhh this is the life!"

Ryan2 hours ago

Ryan grins as he follows Carter into the water, the cool embrace of the ocean a welcome relief from the oppressive heat of the day. "Yeah, it sure is," he said, his voice echoing through the swirling waves as he took a moment to enjoy the feeling of the sun on his skin and the water at his back.

You2 hours ago

Carter swims around, enjoying himself. He gives no clue as to the betrayal he subjected Ryan to last night. The memories of the previous night don't cross either man's mind at the moment. Carter looks over to Ryan, "So, you and Bethany figured out honeymoon plans yet?"

Ryan2 hours ago

"Yeah, we're going to Europe for a couple of weeks. We're starting in Paris and making our way to Rome," Ryan said with a grin, the memories of the night before still dancing at the edges of his consciousness but held at bay by the warm embrace of the sun and the salt-kissed air. "It should be a lot of fun."

You2 hours ago

Carter lifts his brows in delight, "Oh man! That sounds awesome! I'm hella jealous." Carter's mind darts to an old plan he and Ryan made, they said they were gonna backpack through Europe before they turned 30... they never did because life got in the way, as it always does. Carter does a slow backstroke, feeling comforted as the water nestles him into it's cool embrace. "You'll have to bring me a souvenir or something..." His voice sounds a little melancholy.

Ryan2 hours ago

"Of course," Ryan said with a grin. "We'll definitely bring you back something." He enjoys the salt-air caressing his skin as he swims. He doesn't think about their old plans.

You2 hours ago

Carter dives under the water, his eyes lingering on Ryan's figure for a moment. He re-emerges a few feet away. "We never made it out there ourselves." Carter mentions, a tinge of sadness gripping his mind. "We had a lot of plans we never saw through, you know?"

Ryan2 hours ago

"Yeah, I know," Ryan said with a sigh. "Life gets in the way." He takes a moment to let the water close over his head, the silence and the darkness offering him a brief respite.

You2 hours ago

Carter begins to drift back toward the shore, "I want to say it's not too late but... Like you said, life gets in the way." He knows their time together is limited now-a-days. Maybe they could plan something new but that could be hard. Even so, they're best friends... if they want it to work, they'll make it happen.

Ryan2 hours ago

"Yeah, I guess you're right," Ryan said, his eyes fixed on the horizon as he let the waves carry him gently back to shore. "We'll just have to make the most of the time we have left."

You2 hours ago

Carter nods, still drifting back toward the shore. His butt nestles into the sand under the shallow water, he leans back and lets the water crash into him. "You think you guys are gonna have kids?" Carter asks.

Ryan2 hours ago

"We've talked about it," Ryan said with a nod. "We'd like to have kids someday, but we want to make sure we're ready for it." He looks over at Carter, his eyes filled with the warmth and affection that had always defined their friendship. "What about you?"

You2 hours ago

Carter stays seated in the sand as the water rushes over his waist. He nods along, "That's good. I look forward to meeting Ryan Jr or Bethany Jr..." He cracks a smile at the thought of Ryan becoming a dad, the idea of seeing his lifelong best friend taking such a big step in the near future. Carter shrugs, "I dont know, really. I might like to one day but I'd have to settle down first and I don't see any ladies jumping at me anytime soon. I don't know if I'm dad material, anyway."

Ryan2 hours ago

"You'd be a great dad, Carter," Ryan said with a grin. "And you'll find someone eventually. You just gotta be patient and open to the possibilities." He takes a moment to let the waves wash over him, the cool embrace of the ocean a welcome respite from the heat of the day.

Youan hour ago

Carter's eyes trail off to the horizon slowly, "Maybe. Only time will tell." He says, unsure if he agrees. He stands up finally and says, "Alright, my stomach is shouting at me. You wanna grab breakfast?"

Ryanan hour ago

"Sounds good," Ryan said with a nod. "I could definitely use some food." He takes one last look out at the horizon before following Carter back to shore.

Youan hour ago

Carter heads back to their towels, he dries himself off and pulls his shirt back on. "What are you in the mood for?" He asks.

Ryanan hour ago

"I'm starving, I'll eat just about anything right now," Ryan said with a grin. "What do you suggest?"

Youan hour ago

"I'm thinking bacon, first and foremost." He talks with his hands, motioning to Ryan as he talks, "French toast sounds amazing right now."

Ryanan hour ago

"Yeah, that sounds great," Ryan said with a nod. "Let's go check out the breakfast place around the corner." He takes a moment to shake the sand from his shoes before heading off with Carter.

Youan hour ago

As they walk to the restaurant, Carter glances over toward Ryan... His mind returns to the visual from last night, Ryan and Aisha, and the video he took. With their talk of becoming dads, Carter cant help but wonder if Aisha will wind up pregnant with Ryan. After arriving, Carter grabs the door and holds it open for Ryan.

You43 minutes ago

They sit down and are greeted by a cute server named Ophelia, she seems bubbly and energetic. She takes their orders and heads off to put them in. Carter glances at her as she walks away, his eyes trailing her for a few moments, before turning his attention back to Ryan.

You42 minutes ago

"Nice view," Carter said with a grin, his eyes still lingering on the retreating figure of their server.

Ryan42 minutes ago

"Yeah, she's not bad," Ryan said with a chuckle. "But I'm all about Bethany, you know that." He takes a moment to sip his water, his eyes fixed on the horizon as he let the memories of the night before wash over him once more.

You40 minutes ago

Carter's brow lifts slightly, "And good for her, to have such a devoted partner. May we all be so lucky." he grins, not hinting that he knows of Ryan's cheating the night before.

Ryan40 minutes ago

"Amen to that," Ryan said with a nod. "But enough about me, how you been? You still hitting the gym like you used to?" Ophelia brings their drinks by, Ryan takes a sip of his coffee.

You37 minutes ago

Ryan takes a good swig of his orange juice and says, "Off and on. I took a break for a bit after my dad died but mom's doing better now. I feel like I can leave for more than just work, I'm getting back into the swing of things." He flexes his bicep, patting his hand on it, "Dont think I've lost too much strength or anything." Carter rests his arms on the table, leaning forward a bit. "What about you? You're looking pretty fit still."

Ryan37 minutes ago

"Yeah, I've been trying to keep up with the gym," Ryan said with a nod. "I've got a pretty rigorous workout routine set up." He takes a sip of his coffee, his eyes fixed on the horizon "I can't let myself go, you know? I want to be around for Bethany as long as I can."

You33 minutes ago

"It definitely shows, you're looking good Ryan." He pats his beer belly and says, "I'll probably never have abs but I think I wear my body well. Gut and all." He grins playfully. Ryan isn't super ripped or anything, he's got some definition to his abs, but he's more of a lanky guy. Still, both of them suit their body types very well.

Ryan33 minutes ago

"You look great, Carter," Ryan said with a grin. "Don't let anyone else tell you otherwise. You're still my favorite buddy, no matter what anyone else says."

You32 minutes ago

Carter's brow arches, "Did someone say otherwise?" he asks in jest.

Ryan32 minutes ago

"No one in particular," Ryan said with a shrug. "Just want to make sure you know." He takes a sip of his coffee, "Your my best bud, you deserve to be told you're a total stud." Ryan flashes him some fingers guns. Ryan isn't attracted to Carter but he's not unwilling to compliment his friend.

You29 minutes ago

Carter puts his hand over his heart, "My heart is palpitating. You charmer." Carter lets out a hearty laugh. Ophelia comes by with their food and says, "Here you are, gentleman. Let me know if you need anything else." Carter nods to her.

Ryan29 minutes ago

Ryan laughs along with Carter until Ophelia comes by. "Thank you," he said with a smile. "This looks amazing." He takes a bite of his French toast, his eyes going wide as he chews. "Oh my god, this is so good."

You27 minutes ago

Carter begins to chow down, chomping on some bacon. "Mm! Fuck yeah. Just what the doctor ordered." Carter grins, he forks up some french toast and smears it through the syrup before almost swallowing it whole. He's definitely hungry. "Oh yeah. Good call, me."

Ryan26 minutes ago

"Definitely a good call," Ryan said with a nod. "This place is fantastic." He takes another bite of his French toast, savoring the sweet flavors as they danced on his tongue. The continue with their meal, enjoying the time spent together and the chance to get back into that old, familiar feeling of their friendship. Ryan nods to him, "She's got her eye on you, I think." his eyes glance over to the waitress Ophelia who keeps glancing at their table.

You24 minutes ago

Carter freezes, his mouth hanging open with his fork floating in front of it. "What? Who?" He cant see Ophelia or her co-worker she's talking with from his angle.

Ryan24 minutes ago

"Ophelia," Ryan said with a grin. "The waitress. She's been checking you out every chance she gets." He takes another bite of his food, watching as Carter processed the information.

You22 minutes ago

Carter sits his fork down, his tongue checking his teeth over for left over food as he continues chewing slowly. He glances back at her, she blushes and averts her eyes. He looks back at Ryan, "Huh. How about that?" He forks some more food in, "Should I get her number?"

Ryan22 minutes ago

"I don't see why not," Ryan said with a shrug. "If you're interested, go for it. Just remember - look with your eyes, but touch with your hands." He grinned, his eyes filled with the warmth and affection that had always defined their friendship.

You20 minutes ago

Carter quirks a brow, not sure why Ryan said that. "Riiiight." Carter smirks. He takes a swig of his orange juice and looks back again, he decides to get up and go over to her...

You18 minutes ago

Carter walks toward her. Ophelia's coworker is seen bopping her on the arm gently before turning and walking away. "Hey." Carter says as he approaches, "Ophelia." he says confidently. "I couldn't help but notice you glancing my way... I think you're very cute. If you're interested, I'd like to take you out - get to know you. Can I get your number?"

Ryan17 minutes ago

Ophelia blushes profusely at Carter's boldness, her hands trembling as she reaches for a pen and paper. "Oh, well... I mean, sure. I'd like that." She writes down her phone number, her fingers quivering slightly as she handed it over to Carter. "Just give me a call, okay?" Her voice barely above a whisper.

You15 minutes ago

Carter pockets the note and nods, winking at her. "Will do. I'm down with my buddy Ryan for his bachelor weekend, so you'll hear from me soon. I'll catch you around." He offers a warm smile and turns, heading back to the table.

Ryan15 minutes ago

"Nice job, man," Ryan said with a grin as Carter returned to the table. "You've still got it."

You14 minutes ago

Carter grins back at him, "I try."

You14 minutes ago

End of Chapter 2.