It’s cheaper to rent than to own. For example, I don’t own a car and rely on public transportation for getting around. I have no worries or financial obligations associated with owning and maintaining a car. If I need a car, I rent one.
I have the same attitude when it comes to getting laid.
I’m fifty-something and have twice survived the dissolution of a long-term relationship. Clearly, I’m not the marrying kind. Although I no longer desire constant companionship, I enjoy an occasional roll in the hay.
The problem is dating sucks. I could easily spend a couple of hundred bucks on a date – cocktails, dinner and a show at the Old Globe. But there’s no guarantee, at the end of the night, the other guy will be sexually compatible.
Or I could simply place two Benjamins on the table and everybody’s expectations are met. No worries or obligations. Just like renting a car.
A confirmed bachelor and long-time buddy once shared his secret to non-marital bliss. “Always keep three ponies in the stable,” he advised. “What’s the difference,” I asked. “The first guy is the one you’d introduce to family and friends. When he’s not available you call the second guy, or “Plan B”. The third place guy is somebody you might not want to be seen with in public, but the sex is really good.”
I liked his strategy. It made sense. Consequently, I’ve curried a collection of colts over the years. One of my go-to guys, the type I could introduce to family and friends, agreed to being interviewed.
Online, “Hollywood” describes himself as: 34, 5’10”, 175 lbs., black, smooth, muscular and well-endowed. Offline, he has a great smile and is easy on the eye. He’s been a reliable steed since we met three years ago.
Lance Ryder: Please describe yourself and what you do for a living?
Hollywood: I’m not gonna tell you my real age. Let’s just say black don’t crack. (laughs) I grew up in Washington, D.C., and came to California for a change of pace, to hang out with peers from college. I visited a few times before making the move. I work for a production company setting up venues for concerts, special events, film shoots – that sort of thing.
How and when did you decide to be an escort?
I was in a tough time financially. A friend of mine told me about the money he was making and I was blown away. I had no idea. I mean how many jobs out there pay $200 an hour? So I got started online about four years ago.
What are the pros and cons of being an escort?
The fast money you can make is definitely a pro. There are a few cons. At first I felt I had to be something I wasn’t, that I was obligated to get with a client just because they hit me up. Not being attracted to a person makes it difficult to stay hard. Or the client is different than they’ve described themselves, or they don’t look like their pictures.
What’s on your mind when you meet a client for the first time?
For me it’s all about truth in advertising. What I tell you I’m all about is what you get. There aren’t any surprises. I focus on making sure the client’s needs have been met. I enjoy what I do. I have a good time and I want them to have a good time, too.
Any celebrity clients? Ever signed a confidentiality agreement?
Yes. They’ve run the gamut; from producers, to actors, to visiting athletes. I’ve never signed a confidentiality agreement, but they want to meet first and get to know me. They need to be comfortable with me. If I’m not what I advertise, then I’m not getting paid.
How do you stay motivated if you’re not attracted to a client?
That’s one of the “cons” and there are guys out there who can only see the money. But my friend who got me started explained that I don’t have to get with everybody who hits me up. I could be selective. It’s important for me as well as the client to have a good time. I’m not a good actor and people know if you’re faking it. There needs to be a connection. If I’m enjoying it, then the client is going to enjoy it. If the client enjoys it, then there’s a good chance he’ll be a return customer.
Have you ever fallen in love with a client? Has a client ever fallen in love with you?
Me? No. Not “in love”, but a client was definitely in “deep like.” Very demanding, expected me to drop everything and just be with him. He was very restrictive and it made me uncomfortable. I’m my own person. I need to be respected.
Have you ever been in a dangerous situation?
No. Never.
What is the biggest misconception people have about escorts?
I have to think about this one. I guess the biggest misconception is that we’re slaves. That just because we’re getting paid means we’ll do anything the client wants. And I guess the biggest surprise is that it’s not always just about sex. Sometimes I’m an attractive intelligent date for a social event. It just comes down to the client having a good time.
Finally, do you ever think about a day when you’d quit escorting?
Sure, a few times. A better financial situation, a better job comes along. Sometimes you get to a point where you can’t do it anymore. Sometimes escorting just runs its course. Some guys take a break from work, and then start up again. And you never know, I might meet a special guy and decide to start a serious relationship.
The names and photos are fictitious. The people and events are real.
