because i said i'd update: turned out it was no issue.

her corporate rate includes lounge access/breakfast and a late checkout...i was listed as a second guest in the room, so was able to check in before she did in both cases...i politely mentioned my status at check-in at the first hotel, but didn't push for anything (and nothing was offered).

i suspect status helped once i got to her room and discovered a strong smell of smoke--non-smoking had been booked, but she'd been assigned a smoking floor.

we were moved to a room on the top floor which included an amenity, which the first room didn't...fwiw. thanks for the help, all. ^