Molly peeked over the fence, eyeing the brightly decorated backyard teeming with bouncing castles and plastic ponies. “Bill, this place is crawling with kids. Are you sure about this?” Bill adjusted his baseball cap, grinning. “Absolutely. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Think of the presents, Molly. It’s like Christmas came early for us—just a little… unorthodox.” Molly crossed her arms. “Unorthodox is putting it mildly. We’re about to commit grand theft—of toys, no less—at a children’s party.” Bill chuckled. “Come on, Molly. Don’t be such a bore. Besides, what’s the worst that could happen?” She raised an eyebrow and pointed. “Getting caught, for starters. Or worse, getting chased by a pack of angry tiny humans armed with plastic swords and water pistols.” Bill shrugged. “Water guns aren’t much of a threat. Now, the presents—those are the real prize. Think about it: every doll, every action figure—ours for the taking.” Molly hesitated, then looked at the succession of wrapped gifts lined up under a big tent. “You know, I kinda feel guilty. It’s a kid’s party. We’re about to steal all their happiness.” Bill laughed. “Guilt doesn’t pay the bills, Molly. And besides, we’re Robin Hood—sort of. Stealing from the rich—parents—and giving to… well, ourselves.” She rolled her eyes. “Robin Hood? More like Robin Hoodwink. And what if we get caught?” He grinned wider, eyes gleaming. “That’s where the fun begins. We’re smart, Molly. We know the layout. I’ve studied the backyard from every angle. We go in through the side gate—quiet, quick—and hit the presents before anyone notices.” “I still don’t get why you’re so eager. Last week, you almost got us busted trying to nick that giant inflatable duck from the park.” Bill smirked. “That duck was a masterpiece. Anyway, when's the perfect time? During the party, when everyone’s distracted?” Molly nodded slowly. “Yes, but wouldn’t the parents notice? Kids don’t usually keep quiet about grown-up capers.” “Think about it,” Bill said, rubbing his hands together. “Most parents are busy playing corny party games or gossiping. No one’s watching the birthday girl’s presents. Besides, I’ve got a fake birthday hat and an extra wig—I’ll be disguised as a clown, no problem.” Molly blinked. “A clown?” “Exactly. Nobody suspects the clown-of-the-hour. Plus, I’ve got a cart to carry the loot. It’s perfect.” She sighed. “And what’s your grand plan after… after we nab everything?” Bill grinned mischievously. “Simple. We load up the cart, sneak out the back, and vanish into the night like modern-day phantom burglars. Then we divide everything—half to me, half to you—and nobody’s the wiser.” Molly groaned softly. “You really think this will work?” He winked. “Molly, my dear, where’s your sense of adventure? This is the heist of the century! Well, maybe not the century—more like the afternoon. Still, it’s legendary.” She shook her head, biting her lip to keep from smiling. “Alright, but if we get caught, I’m blaming the clown costume.” Bill burst out laughing. “Deal. Now let’s move before those kids realize they’re about to lose all their birthday gifts.” Molly took a deep breath, glancing at the busy yard. “Here goes nothing. Just remember—you’re the clown, I’m the lookout.” “Got it,” Bill said, pulling out a comically oversized prop horn. “Time to make some magic—or chaos.” They tiptoed toward the side gate, their plan already unfolding in their minds as giggles and party music floated through the air. The heist was on, and neither of them had a single doubt about the legendary adventure that lay ahead.