The ambulance crew arrived quickly, closely followed by the police, their flashing lights illuminating the front of Eli's house. She was lying on the sofa, her father trying to comfort her as the officers took initial statements.

"Can you describe the assailant?" asked one of the officers, a notebook in his hand.

"He was wearing a black mask and dark clothes. I couldn't see his face," replied Eli in a weak but determined voice. The pain in her stomach and lip made her wince with every word.

He was quite tall, maybe 5'8". Quite muscular," Leon added, his eyes darting between the paramedic attending to his daughter and the policeman. "I gave him a few blows before he took off. I hope that helps identify him."

The officers took notes before embarking on a thorough inspection of the house, looking for any clues that might help them find the burglar.

Meanwhile, the paramedics were treating Eli's injuries. His split lip required a few stitches, and his stomach bore the marks of the violent blow he had received. "It's all right, Miss. You're safe now," one of the paramedics reassured her.

"Thank you," Eli murmured, despite the pain.

"Why would anyone target our house?" she wondered aloud. A legitimate question hanging in the air, with no immediate answer.

However, the police inspection revealed no solid leads. "He probably acted opportunistically. But don't worry, we're going to step up security in the area," assured one of the officers.

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"I'm going to install an alarm system and surveillance cameras," announced Léon. "It's inconceivable that something like this could happen again.

Eli nodded. "I think it's a good idea, Dad. It might be the sensible thing to do after what's happened."

She was having a lot of trouble breathing, her breaths coming in jerky gasps. The paramedic looked at Eli thoughtfully and took Leon aside.

"Mr Thompson, I think we should take your daughter to hospital for further tests. She may have a concussion and some cracked or broken ribs."

Leon nodded, determined that his daughter should receive the best possible treatment, especially given her difficulty in breathing.

Alicia and Julia arrived in a hurry. They rushed towards Eli. Seeing her two best friends storming in, Eli couldn't help but crack a smile, which immediately turned into a grimace from the pain in her lip.

"Oh, my poor Eli..." sobbed Julia as she gave him a gentle hug. "How I was afraid for you..." Tears welled up in Julia's eyes.

Alicia, less controlled than Julia, let long tears run down her cheeks and hugged Eli too.

"I was afraid Page would be bored alone in hospital, so I'm going to join her," Eli joked.

"I'm not sure she's a winner," Alicia joked.

"That's for sure," Julia added gently, teasing.

Eli's headache continued to get worse. She began to vomit.

The paramedic and Leon saw Eli bending over and vomiting, and rushed over to her.

"Alicia, Julia, take Eli to hospital. I'll call Junior. I have to stay with the police officers, but I'll join you as soon as I can," said Leon, worry making his speech rapid.

The two girls nodded in agreement. Eli was placed on a stretcher. The ambulance left quickly.

Tom joined Leon and watched the ambulance drive away. "I promise you, Leon, we're going to catch the son of a bitch who did this to your daughter.

"Thank you, Tom..." replied Leon.