Before I begin, please accept my apology for the novel.
Perhaps there are two versions of long term relationships that are worth of being considered.
One is having a “favorite” companion for a longer length of time, say for years, visiting her a certain number of times each year (how many meetings determining regular or long-term is defined by each individual and girl), while also meeting other, new companions, as if one were on a search for the next “favorite”.
The other version is not only having a “favorite” companion or more than one, but also meeting regularly and exclusively with her or them each month for a longer period of time, say years, while not meeting with others and thus not engaging in a search for the next “favorite”.
I like what Jaycee and Sins accurately described as the benefits and the natural progression of the initial client/provider relationship to a different level, in my opinion and experience. I have typically referred to the situation as “knowing our way around each other”, both physically as well as emotionally/personality-wise. Have friendships been created? Yes, and the level differed with each situation. In most cases, I have learned that girls like someone to talk with as much as we do.
Maybe it is my personality, emotional makeup or something else, but I have always been drawn towards and preferred the second option. The longest arrangement was three and a half years and I am very much enjoying a connection with a wonderful young lady that began fourteen months ago.
Obviously, it is up to the OP to decide which is version is more suitable to him. One other thing to consider may be one’s tenure in this private world. New participants can have that kid in the candy store look and feel about themselves, and a strong desire for variety (I did, early on), so catering to that desire for a period of time is a good solution until one senses the need or desire to form a longer term arrangement.
Either way involves fun and adventure! So, have fun and play safe the way you prefer!