"This is insane," Molly whispered, crouching beside a shrub near the bounce house. "We're actually going to steal from a bunch of kids?" "Not from the kids," Bill clarified, "from their parents. It's a victimless crime, really." "Oh, well, that makes it better," Molly said sarcastically. "So, what's the plan?" Bill pointed towards the cake table. "We blend in, distract the parents, and swipe the gifts when they're busy cutting the cake. Easy-peasy lemon squeezy." "That doesn't sound very foolproof, Bill," Molly said, shaking her head. "These parents probably know each other. We'll stick out like sore thumbs." "Nonsense," Bill dismissed, patting his oversized clown costume. "We're professionals. Trust me, no one will suspect a thing." The pair hesitantly entered the bustling party. Molly avoided eye contact with the other adults, focusing on the abundance of balloons and streamers. Meanwhile, Bill paraded around confidently, whistling a jovial tune and high-fiving anyone within reach. They made their way to the gift table, examining the pile of brightly wrapped packages. Bill eyed the largest one, whispering, "I bet that's the piñata stick. No one would miss a piñata stick, right?" Molly shot him a disapproving look. "We're not here for toys, Bill. Stick to the plan." Bill grumbled under his breath but nodded in agreement. The sound of a microphone crackling filled the air as the birthday child's father took the stage. "Ladies and gentlemen," he announced, "let's gather 'round for the cake cutting!" Parents corralled their children, shuffling them towards the main stage. Molly and Bill exchanged a knowing glance and casually positioned themselves at opposite ends of the gift table. As the cake was brought out, Bill created a diversion by launching into a comically clumsy juggling act with nearby balloons. The adults chuckled, keeping one eye on the cake and the other on his performance. Meanwhile, Molly discreetly collected the gifts, piling them onto a nearby trolley disguised as a birthday present. She pushed it slowly towards the exit, trying to appear nonchalant. Just as she was about to reach the door, a child bumped into her, causing her to lose her grip on the trolley. The presents wobbled precariously, nearly toppling over. Molly's heart raced as she braced for the worst. Bill noticed the near-disaster and quickly swooped in, stabilizing the tower of gifts with one hand while juggling with the other. He grinned sheepishly at the parents, bowing theatrically to cover his fumble. With the situation under control, Molly made a beeline for the door, successfully wheeling the stolen gifts to their waiting van. Bill swiftly followed suit, tossing aside his balloons and abandoning his clown persona as they sped away. As they pulled onto the highway, Molly eyed Bill accusingly. "We almost blew our cover. We're supposed to be professionals." Bill sighed. "At least the piñata stick is safe." Molly's jaw dropped. "You stole the piñata stick?!" "Well, it was just too tempting." Bill chuckled. Molly groaned. "We're going to need a bigger van for our next heist."