How to use unreal conditions of the future In English? My friend is asking to see a movie with her this afternoon. However, I will have an exam at that time and I will be unable to go with her. so I say, I'll have to take an exam this afternoon. If I didn't have to, I would go with you. But this seems strange, because "If I didn't have to, I would go with you. " means something at present, rather than in the future. so how should I see, or could you suggest another way to say so.