Molly leaned against the wall of the alley, her arms crossed, a mischievous grin plastered on her face. “So, Bill, you ready for the heist of the century?” Bill adjusted his oversized sunglasses, even though it was nighttime. “Absolutely! I’ve been practicing my stealth moves. Watch this!” He crouched low and tiptoed exaggeratedly, nearly tripping over his own feet. Molly burst out laughing. “You look like a penguin trying to sneak up on a fish! We’re stealing presents, not auditioning for a nature documentary.” “Hey, it’s all about the technique!” Bill straightened up, puffing out his chest. “Now, what’s the plan?” “Simple. We wait until the kids are distracted by the clown. You know how they get—balloons, face paint, and all that jazz. It’s like a sugar-fueled circus in there.” “Right, right. And then we swoop in like ninjas!” Bill said, striking a pose. “Ninja thieves!” “More like clumsy raccoons,” Molly teased. “But sure, let’s go with ninjas. We grab the presents, and we’re out before anyone notices.” “Got it! What about the security?” Bill asked, his brow furrowing. “I mean, it’s a kid’s party. Do they have, like, a bouncer or something?” “Just a couple of parents. I doubt they’ll be on high alert. They’re probably too busy trying to figure out how to get the frosting out of their hair.” “Good point. So, what’s the first step?” Bill asked, rubbing his hands together. “First, we need to blend in. You know, act like we belong there. I’ve got a plan.” Molly pulled out a bright pink party hat from her bag. “Put this on.” “Seriously? A party hat?” Bill raised an eyebrow. “Trust me. It’s all about the disguise. You wear the hat, and they’ll think you’re just another goofy adult. Now, where’s your party spirit?” “Fine, fine.” Bill reluctantly put on the hat, which flopped over his eyes. “How do I look?” “Like a confused piñata,” Molly snickered. “But it’ll work. Now, let’s go over the details. We’ll enter through the back, right?” “Right! And then what? Do we just grab the gifts and run?” “Exactly! But we need to be quick. The clown’s act should last about fifteen minutes. That’s our window.” “Fifteen minutes? That’s not a lot of time!” Bill exclaimed, his eyes widening. “Relax! We’re professionals. Well, sort of. Just remember: in and out, like a ninja raccoon.” “Got it! But what if the kids see us?” “Just act natural. If they ask questions, tell them you’re the ‘present delivery service.’ Kids love that stuff.” “Okay, okay. I can do this.” Bill took a deep breath. “I’m ready. Let’s go steal some presents!” “Now you’re talking! Just remember, if we get caught, I’m blaming you for the penguin dance.” “Deal! But if we get away with this, I want a cut of the toys!” Bill said, grinning. “Fine! But only if you promise to never wear that hat again.” “Deal!” Bill laughed, and together they slipped into the night, ready to become the most ridiculous thieves the world had ever seen.