Damn, you are FINE. I'd fly to you (if I could afford it-- LOL).
Seriously, there has to be a lot of trust doing something like this. If he pre-loads an account for you, he is taking a huge risk that you'll never show. He can probably cover some of his risk if he buys you a refundable ticket, but then you risk having to give him your real name. Yes, thanks to the Muslim raghead terrorists, we now live in a world with way too many STUPID government rules.
Another option is for you to provide your own transportation to the clients location. You could fly yourself. You could drive. You could consider making a tour of it and book multiple clients. Lots of options that could mitigate your risks (and his risks).
BTW, if you ever consider touring the FL Panhandle, please let me know