What do people do when you are flying with a client/prospect (and others) who are not flying first/upgraded/have status?

I flew with a client this week - 1 hour flight. I had no idea whether client had status, etc so night before called AA to see if he was in first, on upgrade list. Found out he wasn't so I had them reverse my upgrade to fly in coach.

Get to gate, they announce my name and tell me they op up'd me because coach was oversold. Ironic considering the number of times I really want an upgrade and it's a no go.

Assigned 4A rather than 6E (my original choice). Turns out 4B is a pretty young lady and 6F is an older gentleman. Client boards to coach, chuckles and afterwards reminds me of the episode where Seinfeld is in first next to a supermodel and Elaine is in coach. No negative consequences from client but me thinks God must certainly have a twisted sense of humor.