I'd suggest giving another episode or two a go if you were lacking inspiration. Maybe that's just me. If you are dropping our 1x1, let me know. I don't mind waiting but I do mind when someone isn't happy or feeling 'it' anymore.

You could just say he was with everyone the night before? That might be the easiest work around instead of overthinking it. If he ends up joining the others a little late, that's fine.