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. “Look at that,” she whispered, nudging Bill, who was busy adjusting his ski mask. “It’s like a treasure trove of toys and cake.” Bill squinted, adjusting his mask. “You sure this is a good idea? I mean, it’s a kid’s party. What if they catch us?” Molly rolled her eyes. “Catch us? Bill, they’re kids! The only thing they’re good at catching is a cold. Now, focus. We need a plan.” “Right, right. So, what’s the plan?” Bill asked, scratching his head. “Simple. We go in, grab the presents, and get out before anyone notices. Easy-peasy.” “Easy-peasy? You do realize there’s a clown in there, right? Clowns are terrifying!” Molly shot him a look. “You’re scared of clowns? You’re a thief! You’ve broken into houses, but a clown freaks you out?” “Hey, I’m not scared! I just… respect their unpredictability,” Bill stammered. “Respect? You’re acting like they’re wild animals. Just stay focused. We need to blend in.” “Blend in? With a bunch of kids? I can’t even remember the last time I played hopscotch!” “Then don’t play hopscotch! Just act like you’re here for the party. Smile, wave, maybe even grab a cupcake or two.” “Cupcakes? Now you’re talking my language!” Bill grinned, his fear momentarily forgotten. “So, we go in, grab the loot, and then…?” “Then we make a run for it. Simple as that. Just follow my lead.” “Got it. But what if they see us?” Molly shrugged. “If they see us, we just say we’re the new entertainment. ‘Surprise! We’re here to steal your hearts!’” “Or your presents,” Bill added, chuckling nervously. “Exactly! Now, let’s go. On three. One… two…” “Wait! What if they have a guard dog?” Bill interrupted, his eyes wide. “Bill, it’s a birthday party, not Fort Knox. There’s no guard dog. Just a bunch of sugar-fueled kids.” “Okay, okay. I’m ready. Let’s do this!” “On three. One… two… three!” They dashed through the gate, and Molly immediately waved at a group of kids. “Hey, party people!” “Who are you?” a little girl asked, her hands on her hips. “Uh, we’re… the surprise guests!” Bill blurted, trying to sound enthusiastic. “Surprise guests?” another kid echoed, eyes wide with curiosity. “Yeah! We’re here to… uh, juggle!” Molly said, grabbing a couple of balloons and pretending to toss them in the air. “Can you really juggle?” a boy asked, bouncing on his toes. “Of course! Just watch!” Bill said, grabbing a cupcake instead and tossing it in the air. It landed splat on his face. “Nice juggling!” the kids cheered, laughing hysterically. Molly stifled a laugh. “Okay, while they’re distracted, let’s grab the presents!” “Right! Operation Cupcake Distraction is a go!” Bill said, wiping frosting off his face as they made a beeline for the pile of gifts.