Molly tossed a striped sock onto the bed as she rifled through her mountain of laundry for the perfect disguise. “So, tell me again why we’re sinking to crib-crashing.” Bill, already disguised in a clown suit that squeezed his midsection mercilessly, peered over Molly’s shoulder. “It’s simple economics. Birthday parties, especially kiddie ones, equal big loot. Parents are dropping serious cash on toys these days.” “But a children’s party, Bill?” Molly finally decided on a polka-dotted t-shirt. Bill honked his fake clown nose, a wary twinkle in his eye. “It’s not rocket science, Mol. We blend in, nab the goodies, and boogie before the piñata busting.” Molly pulled her hair into pigtails, looking herself over. “I feel ridiculous. Are you sure about this?” “Absolutely,” Bill chirped, adjusting his oversized bow tie. “Now, here’s the plan: The Johnsons are hosting little Timmy's bash at their house on Maple Street. High-end toys and gadgets galore.” Rolling her eyes, Molly sighed. “Fine. How do we get in?” With a flourish, Bill produced two brightly colored invitations from his sleeve. “Magic! Now, once we're inside, you're on balloon duty.” “Balloons?” Bill nodded enthusiastically. “You’re gonna be inflating them — but not with air. You’ll fill 'em with this.” He brandished a canister labeled Helium. Molly squinted at him. “Helium's for balloons, genius. What's the con?” “Ah, not just any helium—sleepy-time helium. Two breaths of this and those rugrats will nap through New Year's.” She chuckled. “That’s kinda smart, Bill.” Bill took a mock bow. “Thank you, thank you. While the kiddos are snoozing, you swipe the bounty.” “And the escape?” “Snatch and grab, Molly. We stuff the gifts into these.” Bill tapped an oversized, polka-dotted bag at his feet. “Then saunter out.” Molly cracked a grin. “Just like grabbing candy from a baby.” Bill shrugged into his rainbow suspenders, a confident smirk playing on his lips. "Exactly. Oh, and I almost forgot—happy face, Molly. We're supposed to be delightfully fun." “Right,” Molly mimicked an exaggerated smile, then softened into genuine amusement. “This might actually work, Bill.” Bill clapped her on the back, nearly dislocating her shoulder. “Of course, it will!” Heading toward the door, he tossed her the helium canister. “Let’s make some kids happy, partner.” Molly nodded, a surge of adrenaline tingling her fingertips. “To the Johnsons’ we go. Let’s not ruin a birthday, but make a fortune instead.”