Lol, the zip ties are there to hold the other piece that looks like a patch. it's actually to keep the hose from rubbing on the power steering reservoir. I guess the hose was too long or something? Idk, I can't remember. its there for a reason tho! I'm having to remember why I did things, and then mentally kicking myself for doing them, lol.
You haven't had it for 12 years, you didn't have to own up to that, could have blamed the prior owner.