While on her way to work, Tohru encounters Hiro Sohma, the Ram/Sheep of the Chinese zodiac. He is shown as a person who practices sophism, constantly hurling verbal insults. Hiro steals Tohru's notebook from her handbag, causing her to panic since that is where she puts her late mother's photo. Tohru, Kyo, Momiji, and Kisa all find and confront him about this deed. Returning her notebook, Hiro then admits his jealousy toward Tohru, because of how affectionate he is of Kisa. While Tohru and Kisa spend time with Hiro, Kyo becomes upset by the way Hiro is treating Tohru. It is later discovered that Hiro is fond of Kisa and wants to protect her, and that he blames himself for not defending her when she was bullied at school. Tohru takes them to a playground and they stop by a nearby vendor for crêpe. She cheers Hiro up by saying that he is courageous for being able to admit his shortcomings and for always caring for Kisa.