When we started working together I suggested a six month trial, and he said let's do 12 months. That role was perfect and I had the skills for it. 6 months in his business priorities changed, so he pushed me into a new role. Then, at the ten month mark said "I just don't have any more work for you."

It all depends on what is a friend. Your statement makes me question what makes a good friend. I don't really know right now. It is a lot harder to make them at 50, of that I'm sure.