Molly and Bill crouched behind a colorful hedge in the backyard of the Murphy residence. The faint sound of giggles and clinking party props floated towards them. "Remind me again why we're doing this, Molly?" Bill asked, squinting at the vibrant balloons swaying in the gentle breeze. "Because, Bill, the presents," Molly replied, adjusting her black beanie. "Do you have any idea how much parents spend on these things?" Bill pulled out a crumpled list from his jacket pocket. "So what's the plan, partner?" "Simple," she said with a mischievous grin. "We blend in as entertainment. I've got my clown nose and you've got your... well, whatever it is you do." "I'm a magician, Molly, remember?" Bill huffed, waving a deck of cards. "Sleight of hand, distraction. That's my forte." "Right, the disappearing act," Molly chuckled. "Okay, step one: get in unnoticed." "Easy for you, with your balloon animals. I can't pull a rabbit out of a top hat for every table," Bill muttered. "Then maybe just stick to card tricks, Bill. Confidence, remember?" she encouraged. "Confidence. Got it. What's step two?" he asked. "Locate the presents," Molly replied, her eyes scanning the scene beyond the hedge. "You mean the mountain of brightly wrapped boxes by the gazebo?" Bill pointed with a smirk. "Precisely," she nodded. "Step three: the distraction. You go on and do your magic act, I'll handle the gifts." "And what about security?" Bill asked, glancing nervously at the gathering of moms. "Bill, they're equipped with cupcakes and paper plates, not security wands," Molly reassured. "Besides, the real security's inside napping before the cake-cutting." "You mean the toddlers?" "Exactly," Molly grinned. "Step four: the getaway. Double back to the car when you hear the birthday song." Bill scratched his head. "Molly, what happens if we're caught by, you know, actual adults?" Molly rolled her eyes. "That's why they've got clowns and magicians, Bill. No one's taking us seriously anyway. Now, are you ready?" "I've got butterflies," Bill admitted, a hint of unease in his voice. Molly patted his back. "You're not alone, friend. But think of the haul, the triumphant return, and the endless supply of..." "Candy?" Bill interrupted, envisioning the spoils. "Right, and those fancy gift cards," Molly chimed in, eyes twinkling. "We split fifty-fifty as usual." Bill took a deep breath, flexing his fingers around the deck of cards. "Alright, let's do this. Ready, clown?" Molly placed a bright red nose over her own and nodded. "Ready, magician." They stood up and adjusted their disguises. Bill performed a few flourishes with his cards, while Molly inflated a balloon into a floppy dog shape. "You sure they're buying it?" Bill whispered as they joined the party. Molly glanced around, taking in the carefree crowd. "You kidding? You in a bow tie and me in rainbow suspenders? We're the life of this shindig." Bill grinned a little, rubbing his palms together. "Let's make it a party to remember, eh?" Molly nodded, watching as a group of delighted children ran towards them. "Alright, showtime. Let the games begin!"