Do we have to thank Zach for introducing us and making her part of the group?

Instead he'll get to see his obssession walking around with his former friend
Dani was only a background character until now(and even in the background people here were taking notice of her).
The photo in discussion is a surprised reaction "why are you even talking to me?", so potential for plenty more is obviously there.
Smart thinking, she can be used to expand on Gabi, explain what has been going on with her... Marriage, divorce... the whole thing.
Gabi obviously won't do it herself because she "wants" to keep her distance.