Totally depends on the layout and setup of the lobby and reception area. Some hotels have indicidiin podiums for each staff member and without an existing long line of multiple guests appear individual queues might form, it is conceivable that someone might misinterpret such a setup (or other non-podium setups) in such a way that a new line should be formed and expected half the people behind to follow suit. As you were still at the front of your line it could be interpreted as not disadvantaging you since you're still first in your line.