Molly crouched behind a bush, peering through the fence at the vibrant chaos of the birthday party. Balloons bobbed in the breeze, and a clown was attempting to juggle while a group of kids shrieked with laughter. Bill, her partner in crime, adjusted his oversized sunglasses and leaned against the fence, munching on a slice of leftover pizza. “Are you sure this is a good idea?” Molly whispered, her eyes darting around. “I mean, it’s a kids’ party. What if they catch us?” Bill shrugged, cheese dangling from his chin. “What’s the worst that could happen? A bunch of kids tackle us with cake? I’m not scared of a few sugar-fueled six-year-olds.” Molly rolled her eyes. “Right, because nothing says ‘master thief’ like being taken down by a kid in a dinosaur costume.” “Hey, that dinosaur could be fierce! Look at him go!” Bill pointed at a child doing a surprisingly convincing T-Rex impression. “But seriously, we’re here for the loot. Look at all those presents!” Molly squinted at the pile of brightly wrapped boxes. “You think they’re all for the birthday kid?” “Of course not! Some of those are definitely for the guests. We just need to grab the right ones.” Bill grinned, his eyes gleaming with mischief. “We’ll be in and out before they even notice.” “Right, because sneaking into a party full of kids is totally low-key,” Molly said, crossing her arms. “What’s the plan, genius?” “Simple. We wait until the cake is served. Everyone will be distracted. We slip in, grab the goods, and slip out. Easy peasy.” Molly raised an eyebrow. “And what if they serve the cake early? Or worse, what if they have a piñata? You know how kids get with those.” “Then we improvise! We’re thieves, not babysitters.” Bill took another bite of pizza, chewing thoughtfully. “Besides, I’ve got a backup plan.” “Oh? Do tell,” Molly said, intrigued despite herself. “I brought a whoopee cushion,” he said, pulling it from his pocket with a flourish. “I’ll place it on the chair of the clown. When he sits down, it’ll create a distraction. Everyone will be laughing, and we’ll make our move.” Molly stared at him, mouth agape. “A whoopee cushion? That’s your master plan?” “Hey, it’s classic! Trust me, it’ll work.” Bill grinned, clearly proud of his idea. “Fine, but if this goes south, I’m blaming you,” Molly said, shaking her head. “And if we get caught, I’m not going to jail for a whoopee cushion.” “Deal! Now, let’s get ready.” Bill straightened up, adjusting his sunglasses again. “On my mark, we wait for the cake, then we strike.” Molly took a deep breath, her heart racing. “Okay, but if I end up in a birthday hat, I’m never speaking to you again.” “Noted! Now, shh! Here comes the cake!” Bill whispered, eyes wide with excitement. As the kids gathered around the table, Molly and Bill exchanged a glance. “Ready?” he mouthed. “Ready,” she replied, her nerves tingling with anticipation. “Go!” Bill whispered, and they both darted toward the fence, hearts pounding, ready to make their move.