Molly surveyed the house from across the street, her eyes narrowed. "Looks like a fortress." Bill, munching on a stale doughnut, laughed. "It's a kid's birthday party, Mol. How tough can it be?" She shot him a withering glance. "It's swarming with parents, Bill. Parents are like bloodhounds when it comes to their kids' stuff." He swallowed the last bite and wiped his hands on his jeans. "Relax. We’ve handled worse. Remember the time we cracked the safe at the dog show?" Molly smirked. "Yeah, and ended up with a year's supply of kibble. Not exactly the loot of the century." Bill shrugged. "Still, it was a success. We can pull this off. We just need a plan." She sighed. "Fine. But no crazy stunts this time, okay? We go in, grab the presents, and get out. No complications." He grinned. "When have I ever complicated things?" Molly raised an eyebrow. "How about the time you tried to impersonate a clown and ended up starting a pie fight?" Bill chuckled. "Hey, that was a misunderstanding. Besides, a little chaos never hurt anyone." Molly rolled her eyes. "Just stick to the plan. We’ll slip in during the cake cutting. Everyone will be distracted." He nodded. "Good call. I’ll create a diversion if needed. Maybe a little fireworks show?" She glared at him. "Absolutely not. No fireworks. No funny business. Got it?" Bill held up his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. I'll be on my best behavior." She sighed. "That's what I'm afraid of." Bill looked hurt. "Come on, Molly. Have a little faith. We’re a great team." She softened. "I know, Bill. It's just... kids’ parties. They make me nervous. Too many unpredictable variables." He nodded understandingly. "I get it. But don’t worry. We've got this." She took a deep breath. "Okay. Let's go over the details one more time. The party starts at three. The cake comes out at four. That's our window." He repeated, "Four o'clock, cake time. Got it." Molly checked her watch. "We’ve got an hour to get into position. Let’s move." They slipped around the side of the house, keeping to the shadows. Molly peeked through a gap in the fence, assessing the layout of the backyard. "Looks like they’ve got a bouncy castle, a few games, and a table loaded with presents. Perfect." Bill grinned. "See? Piece of cake." She ignored the pun. "Remember, no engaging with the guests. No matter how much they beg you to make balloon animals." Bill chuckled. "No promises. I’m a natural entertainer." Molly snorted. "More like a natural disaster." He feigned offense. "You wound me, Molly. Besides, you love my unpredictability." She shook her head. "Yeah, yeah. Just keep it reined in for today." They reached the back gate, which was slightly ajar. Molly pushed it open a fraction more, wincing at the slight creak. "Coast is clear. Let’s go." They slipped inside, sticking close to the hedge lining the yard. Molly pointed to a large box near the house. "We’ll stash the presents there and make a quick exit." Bill nodded. "Got it." Molly took a deep breath. "Okay. Showtime." Bill clapped his hands together. "Let’s go make some kids cry." Molly glared at him. "I swear, Bill, if you mess this up—" He laughed. "I'm kidding. Let’s just get this done." They approached the table, eyes darting around for any sign of trouble. Molly grabbed the first few presents, handing them to Bill, who stuffed them into a large duffel bag. Molly whispered, "Hurry up. I think I heard someone coming." Bill zipped the bag shut just as a child's voice called out, "Hey, what are you doing?" Panic flashed across Molly’s face. "Run!" They bolted for the fence, presents in tow, leaving behind the chaos they'd sworn to avoid.