Why is Paris there and who is the guy with her?
She was likely brought on for diversity. And just like Akin she is there to be the background but not really given any screen time or stories so that showrunners can say they 'did their part and cast a black person'. I remember all the hoopla they made over casting Akin and I think he may have been friends with Alex Mytton and JP in real life, but he was essentially a token while on the show (and was probably meant to be tbh).
I think Paris seems fairly chill and personally, I think she is very beautiful and level-headed. I liked it when she stood up for herself against Verity and Amelia. Because their reason for being angry with her is something that everyone else does on this show (exchange gossip and information).
General comments about this episode...
Maeva is not as above it as she'd have people believe. I like Maeva for the most part, but she rings false in many ways. She cares a great deal about Tiff liking her and therefore didn't act so bitchy towards her as some of the other girls she is so 'real' with. She was quick to throw Tristan and James under the bus as reasons for why she doesn't like Tiff (however valid or invalid those reasons might be) even though Maeva claims to really pride herself on following her own judgment/forming her own opinions. Her little tantrum and walking out on Tristan and Olivia, who weren't even mad at or yelling at her was very silly. She acts very petulant/ill-mannered at times and then hides behind being 'real'. Being real doesn't mean you have to always be rude and nasty to other people in order to explain your side.
I was surprised by Tristan and Tiff having a mature conversation and just agreeing to support Olivia and put differences aside.
I used to really like Verity and sided with her a lot in regards to the whole James situation. I always thought James and Maeva could be a little harsh at times, but I do think she has a pattern of doing this sort of stuff now (stirring the pot and then playing the innocent victim). But also, I am doubting the Reza storyline because it seems like a contrived way to make Ruby out as a complete victim (even though she has cheated and is acting inappropriately with Miles) so that when she does leave him for Miles, it will look like a good justification. I think Reza has been good at holding his own and I am glad at least Fred has given good advice to both Reza and Ruby. I was also pleasantly surprised that Harvey stood up for Reza against Miles and Julius and that Tristan and James also see right through the 'Tricep Duo'/Ruby situation.
Also, very happy for Louise. I wish her a happy and healthy pregnancy.
I feel very old
mind you I would be suspicious of my boyfriend if he was on dating apps to make friends 
