there was definitely a relationship between them
And honestly I believe the truth that's in the middle of their two stories is : Men with significant money/status can definitely be manipulative af. They're used to running the show and getting what they want , and throwing money at everything to obtain and/or control it. You will be no exception in many cases
However when you choose to engage with one of them many times you know damn well their money/status is a huge reason why you're there. They may not be flat out wiring large sums of money to your bank account , but they are def showing you a new type of lifestyle. And picking up some hefty tabs, and giving you a few gifts.
Sometimes things that are understood don't need to be said out loud. That's why I believe they were in a PASSIVELY transactional relationship. Not transactional as in client/escort, but in a way where they both knew the dynamics that were clearly at play.
And there's nothing wrong with that. We see it all the time . No one should be demonized just for wanting to be with a man who's financially well off - especially if that man finds value in their companionship and gets something out of the "deal" on their end.
But I believe neither party is 100% "innocent" in this. I believe a significant portion of what both of them are saying .