I’ll second what Greg said in his sibling comment. One of the mental models I’ve learned is that if someone offers you a deal and you’re not special in any way,

I’ll second what Greg said in his sibling comment. One of the mental models I’ve learned is that if someone offers you a deal and you’re not special in any way, it’s not a real deal or there’s something more going on. “I charge everyone else X but I like you so you’re getting Y” screams scam/tactic/etc., and as even you pointed out, that’s basically correct (on the tactic piece). That being said, if you’re working with someone who actually deserves a discount - a client referred by a friend, a startup on a budget, etc., then it’s totally fair. I’d just be wary of tossing around discount claims to everyone.