Ben, old housemates and teammates. Not close since school, but still friends.
Richard's company doesn't advertise per se. He is one of their major salesmen and contract managers. His parents are active in the Marseilles social scene though. Or maybe they got better acquainted through his contacts in the Parisian fashion industry. He'd be a 'safe escort' for her, and is taller than she is when she's in her heels.
Lisa he probably knows from book shopping and around the Alley.