So Ethan won't get the job to try and kill Gaia then. But capturing her and doing experiments on her, that is something mr. Johnson can do very well. And he'll be interested in the pay-out too. So yes, let's do that. 

I think it would make the best story if Steph and Benjamin are not in touch during the time skip. Maybe Benjamin wanted to, but he couldn't reach her, because she lost her phone or something and when she gets a new one she only has Aprils number in it.
And then they run into each other. 

It would definitely be in character for Benjamin to try and stay in touch with everyone, including Harriet.