"Bill, we've hit a new low," Molly said, slumping into her chair. "A children's party? Stealing presents from kids? We're bottom feeders now." Bill, perched on a stool, adjusted his ski mask. "Listen, Molly, think about it. Nobody guards a kids' birthday party. We slide in, grab the loot, and slide out. Easy peasy." Molly rolled her eyes, flipping through the stolen invitation. "Who's even having a birthday? Oh, great, it's little Timmy Thompson. You know his dad's a cop, right?" "Yeah, but Chief Thompson will be busy doling out hot dogs or whatever. He won't see us coming," Bill replied confidently. "Besides, they're just kids. What are they gonna do—cry on us?" "Pretty sure that's exactly what they'll do, Bill," Molly said, rapping her fingers on the table. "What's the plan again? In-and-out was it?" "Yep, Molly. We sneak in during the piñata chaos. While they're blinded by candy, we nab the presents and bolt. Simple." Molly raised an eyebrow. "And you've scouted this place?" Bill nodded. "Of course. The backyard has two exits. We use the side gate. No one ever watches the side gate." "And what if someone does watch the side gate?" Molly asked skeptically. Bill sighed. "Back-up plan: blend in. I've got us some costumes." Molly groaned. "If you say clown costumes, I'm out. I'm terrified of clowns." "No clowns!" Bill exclaimed. "We’ll be magicians." "Magicians? Really, Bill? That's your brilliant idea?" "Think about it, Molly. Wands and capes. Perfect distraction. We can even have a rabbit. Kids love rabbits." Molly rubbed her temples. "So, we walk in as magicians, grab the gifts, and then... what? Magically disappear?" "Basically," Bill said, eyes sparkling. "The magic tricks will buy us time. Parents are either too busy filming or dealing with sugar-high kids." "And the exit strategy? Please don't say smoke bombs and vanishing acts." "Nope. We melt away in the hubbub," Bill replied, tapping a finger on the table. "Car's parked three blocks down. We stash the presents and make a clean getaway." Molly arched an eyebrow. "Three blocks, huh? Hope you've been working out. Some of those kids have rich parents. These gifts could be heavy." Bill winked. "They’ve probably got wheels. Hoist one as a 'magic prop,' make it disappear right into our hands." Molly sighed. "Okay, Bill. I’ll play along. But if any kid starts bawling, you’re dealing with it." "Deal," Bill said, holding out his hand. "We’re gonna be the Houdini of thieves." Molly shook her head but took his hand anyway. "Fine. What’s the timetable?" Bill leaned in. "Party starts at 2 PM. Piñata swings at 3. Be there by 2:30, in full costume. And remember—smile. Magicians are always smiling." Molly forced a grin. "Like this?" "Perfect," Bill said, laughing. "Just don’t look too delighted when swiping a train set." Molly chuckled. "Got it. No evil grins while pilfering Legos. Understood." "That's the spirit!" Bill said, packing their gear into a duffel bag. "And if anything goes south, pull a rabbit out of your hat. Literally." Molly smirked. "The only magic trick I’m counting on is making us not get caught." "Trust me, Molly. No one's outsmarting these magicians." "Sure, Bill. And if we're lucky, no one will have to." "Off we go then, partner. To magical heists and kid’s tears." "To magical heists," Molly echoed, shaking her head as they stepped out the door, ready for their unbelievable caper.