One time it worked as planned, we hooked up for a couple of months, then we ended things, (went "no contact" for a while to re-adjust to platonic) and then our friendship continued as per normal. He's married now and lives abroad but visits from time to time and then we hang out.

Second time, LOL We Failed.

Second time we were both kidding ourselves completely, we were in love and deeply in denial (neither wanted romance at the time), which caused undue stress.

Years later, we are still together in a committed relationship and can't imagine life without each other.