I think you are over reacting, and I would not advocate this course of action. I have been in this position on several occasions, and it has worked out quite well. In one case, in particular, I was in the position for slightly over a year (with a boost in pay and perks) and I had a chance to try the job on for size. How often do you get that opportunity?

One of the imponderables here is the matter of corporate/job culture, which varies vastly from occupation to occupation and from situation to situation. Leigh could be right, although I doubt it. It is hard to say, not knowing your company (we don't need to know, although you do). The chances are you show something exceptional to management and they want to see you on a trial flight. Do a decent job, and it will look good on the resume and advance the old career.

The advice you have been given about references to consult is right on. Research the subject.

Never BS the troops. Don't promise anything you can't deliver, and keep your promises. Make your expectations clear and objective. Keep an open door. I am not sure I would give up the lunches - it depends on your situation. I was frequently working with people I supervised in a field situation, where we had three meals a day together, and close contact all the time. It worked quite well, nearly always.