The clock struck noon and the alleyway fell silent. Molly checked her watch for the third time. "Where the hell is he?" she muttered under her breath, nervously fiddling with her black hair. Just then, a figure emerged from the shadows - Bill, clad head to toe in black with a rucksack slung over his shoulder. "I'm here, I'm here," he grumbled, making his way over. "What's the plan?" Molly sighed. "We get into the party, case the joint for the presents, and make a quick getaway before the kiddies finish their cake." Bill snorted. "Right. Piece of cake." He hefted the rucksack. "I've got the lock picks and rope. You bringing the stun gun?" "You kidding? Of course." Molly patted the bulge under her jacket. "I'll handle the adults if needed." "And I'll take care of the brats," Bill said with a grin. "It'll be a walk in the park." "Easy there, tiger," Molly cautioned as they crept up to the backyard. "Remember, in and out quick. No rough stuff with the rug rats." "Whatever you say, boss lady," Bill winked. "You're the brains, I'm just here for muscle." He reached for the latch on the gate. Molly grabbed his arm. "Wait! Let me take point." She crept forward and tried the knob. To her shock, it turned easily. "They left the gate open? Huh. Sloppy." Bill shrugged. "Their mistake." He followed close behind as Molly slipped inside the yard, making a beeline for the back door. She jimmied the lock in seconds. "Voila! In like a fox, out like a hound." Molly cracked the door and peeked inside. The living room was deserted except for piles of presents by the far wall. "Looks clear. Let's go!" Bill hustled over to the gifts and started shoving them into his sack. "Nice haul so far!" he called back gleefully. Suddenly, a shrill voice piped up: "What are you doing? That's MY present!" Bill whipped around to see a little blonde girl pointing an accusing finger. He plastered on an unconvincing smile. "Hey there, pumpkin! Your mom asked us to put these by the tree. Surprise party and all that