The nurse expressed astonishment at Carol's involvement in taking statements, suggesting that she held a higher authority. Carol hesitated as she pondered how to accurately convey her connection to Tony. The terms she considered seemed inadequate or misleading, failing to encapsulate the complexity of their relationship.

Ultimately, she opted for a straightforward explanation, stating simply that Tony feeds her cat. This casual remark illustrates the nuanced nature of their bond, revealing that while they share a connection, it doesn't fit neatly into conventional categories of friendship or professional ties.