I have a regular who I see every week he treats me more like i'm his friend with benefits, he tells me way to much about his marriage problems and family life almost as if I know them all personally. He buys me art equipment and bits and pieces during the week because he knows i like to paint but says it's because he sees something and thinks of me. I sometimes feel a little awkward with these sorts of gifts as it crosses over into my personal life and activities i do in my own time, I would be more comfortable if he got me underwear or toys, something that took less thought.I also often get weekly emails and updates telling me what hes been up to and his fantasies about us going painting together and then the other day as he went to leave he nearly said 'love you' but stopped half way and quickly left. I'm not too worried at the moment as he never pushes the boundaries, he leaves on time and never rings or texts me unless hes booked and is letting me know he on the way.
I'm aware i'm an outlet, a bit of an escape from his not so happy situation.I know he would never leave his wife and certainly not for me anyway, but I can tell that bit of time and attention spent on someone who is receptive and warm towards him means an awful lot. I think for now the balance is right but I am aware that he could possibly become more emotionally involved as time goes on and so i'm thinking what would I do about it then, could I handle it well enough and reinforce the boundaries without offending him. It's only because hes such a regular I would feel more uneasy with cooling it off a bit as we've got to know each over quite well and he obviously feels he can trust me with sensitive situation.
When I worked for an agency this sort of thing never happend to me as i didn't have the chance to get to know my clients so well and see them on such a regular basis, as an indie i'm defiently having to learn more about people management. It's really good to read other peoples experiences and feedback on this subject as I can't really share it with my friends, it's come at a good time!