“Yes. I came home from school. She wasn’t conscious, but she came around when the ambulance arrived. I think it looks worse than it is. Maybe a broken arm … ribs; her face is a mess.” She gazes at her hands the whole time she talks, and I note they’re trembling. I think the girl still may be in minor shock, and I feel instant compassion for her. This is not her burden to bear.

“The man was gone, I take it?” I try a different approach.

“She was alone. I have a key, ...