He had actually seen her earlier that day before the incident in the basement, helping an elderly couple with their purchase for their granddaughter's fourteenth birthday. At the time he didn't pay attention, too busy with circling thoughts of how to fix the situation developing ever so slowly, but dangerously. She was just another stupid ape, not worth his time (at least not one on one interactions). Months later as he listens to her laugh, watches her still care and help others, often without being asked and he feels ashamed of how he first thought of her. Rose Tyler stupid? No not in the least.