Molly chewed on the end of a candy cane, her frown reflecting in the curved, red plastic. "Are you sure about this, Bill? It's a kid's party. Can't we target something less...uninspired?" Bill, balancing a plate of gingerbread men on one knee, shrugged. "Look, Molly, these upper-crust types don't just hand out fluffy toys and colouring books. We're talking designer robots, solid gold finger puppets, maybe even a pony or two, judging by the invitations." Molly eyed him skeptically. "A pony? Seriously?" "Hey, don't laugh. You heard the rumours, right? This year's theme is 'Princess Extravaganza.' Rich kids, Pampered Pets, enough diamonds to melt a glacier," Bill punctuated his words by stuffing a gingerbread man into his mouth, crumbs scattering on his striped suit. "Think of the Christmas bonus, Molly. Enough for us to finally get that beachfront cabana in Fiji." Molly sighed. "And the hassle? Sneaking past parents armed with finger paints and questionable organic snacks? Dealing with shrieking five-year-olds hopped up on sugar? Those are the kind of memories I like to avoid." Bill smirked, adjusting his Santa hat jauntily. "That's why we leave the theatrics to me. You get the loot. Besides," he leaned in conspiratorially, "have you seen those princess dresses? They look like proper kryptonite to adults." He gestured towards the elaborate stage being assembled in the distance, adorned with pink tulle and sparkling cellophane. A life-sized gingerbread house stood proudly beside it. "Okay, fine," Molly resigned, casting a wary glance at the gingerbread house. "But if I have to make eye-contact with a princess tiara, I'm out. Deal?" "Deal," Bill grinned, extending a hand. "Now, remember, we hit the gift table while the royal procession is in full swing. I'll distract Emperor Dad with a particularly impressive magic trick." He winked. "Something involving doves and a suspicious amount of glitter." "And you'll make sure I'm shrouded in enough fluffy pink fuzz to pass as an oversized candy floss monster, right?" "Only the fluffiest, dearest Molly. Now let's hit the candy buffet and scout out the lay of the land." Bill steered her towards a table groaning with sweets, his grin widening at the sight. He grabbed a miniature donut and held it out to Molly. "To us, partner," he toasted, his voice bubbling with excitement. "May our stockings be filled with perfectly pillaged presents." Molly took a bite of the donut and chuckled. "To us, and may the glitter be ever in our favour."