In the shadows of the alley, Molly and Bill huddled over a crudely drawn map of the target house. The moon was a sliver, their only light the flickering streetlamp at the mouth of the alley. Molly, a petite woman with a penchant for vintage dresses and a knack for lock-picking, traced the route with a gloved finger. "We'll go in through the back, avoid the security cameras. They're all focused on the front." Bill, a lanky man with a nervous tic and a talent for distraction, squinted at the map. "And the party? What's our plan there?" Molly smirked. "Simple. We're the entertainment." Bill raised an eyebrow. "The entertainment?" Molly nodded, pulling out a bag of colorful wigs and costumes. "Clowns. Kids love clowns." Bill grimaced. "I hate clowns." Molly rolled her eyes. "You're a thief, Bill. You should be used to wearing masks." They slipped into their costumes, Molly's laughter echoing in the alley as Bill struggled into his oversized shoes. "Remember," she said, "we're there to steal the presents, not the kids' souls." Bill sighed, adjusting his red nose. "I'll try not to scare any of them into therapy." They made their way to the house, their footsteps muffled by the grass. The sound of children's laughter filled the air as they approached the back door. Molly picked the lock, her tools clicking softly in the night. As they slipped inside, Bill looked around, his eyes wide. "Molly, there are kids everywhere." Molly grinned, pulling on her clown gloves. "Exactly, Bill. The more chaos, the better our chances." They pushed open the door to the living room, their entrance greeted by a chorus of delighted squeals. Molly wiggled her fingers, her eyes twinkling. "Hello, boys and girls! We're the Clowns of Surprise!" Bill forced a smile, his hands shaking as he pulled out a balloon. "That's right! And we've got a surprise for all of you!" As they began their act, Molly kept one eye on the presents piled high in the corner. This was going to be easier than she thought.