Ok. As a former escort, I feel I can weigh in here
I met my husband of when he hired me 20 years ago.:)
I was absolutely not looking for a love connection, but when it happens it happens.
We stayed professional for about 6 months before I just said fuck it and started seeing him socially.
It absolutely can work. As long as there is NO power dynamic. You have to always consider each other as equals or it's not gonna work.
Hope this helps