If you're running late, and you've used priceline, hotels will only hold your reservation until 9 PM, unless you call them otherwise. So an after midnight check in shouldn't be an issue but remember to call them when you're running late.
In this business, you have to be somewhat savvy when dealing with others. Not to suggest that you were not. But if the place that you're staying has a smallish lobby, you have to know that the front desk people will be watching.
I have an incall but last Spring, I tried an extended stay place that was close to Plano, but in Dallas.
It took me about a minute to just KNOW that this place was going to not be a good location/hotel for me. Lobby was tiny. The hotel employees were exceptionally observant and there was little foot traffic. Ugh. I wasted my funds those 2 days.
The only way that I would visit a new client that late (I don't even do late appts but if I did), I would sure as heck be sure that I wasn't being watched by someone that I had words with the night before, or at any time.
I can only imagine that your experience was nerve shattering. But honestly, if you're a bit more ... well, stealthy ... perhaps the experience wouldn't have turned out the way that it did.
With front desk people, I come across (on purpose) as an older aunt who just adores her relatives. I treat each front desk person like royalty. I'm overly polite anyway but I give no reason for a hotel employee to think anything else but that I'm a somewhat frumpy older female checking in alone.
And often, I will STILL get a sideways glance. You probably know what I'm talking about.
I would suggest being VERY understated in all of your hotel dealings, if you're working out of hotels. Priceline, single females, are often suspect.
I've often wondered if I have some sort of mark by my name on these sites? I used to use priceline all of the time. But these days, I hear more stories such as the one you just shared.
Anyway ... I'm rattling a bit. And I'm curious to the name of the place. I'll tell you mine ( from last spring) if you tell me yours.
Best of luck to you and I hope you were able to find a more suitable place to stay.
Sincerely,
Elisabeth
P.S. Some more cheap, and possibly unwanted, advice. Always tip the maid. Maids know a lot and well, can also be helpful. Tip. Daily. Modestly.