Molly peered inside the pastel-decorated living room, where a dozen kids screamed over a piñata shaped like a unicorn. “Alright, Bill,” she whispered, “Operation Sugar Rush is a go. But how do we get past the sugar-fueled chaos?” Bill adjusted his tiny, too-small party hat and grinned. “Easy. We blend in. Nobody suspects the party clowns. Especially not when they’re delivering balloons—and sticky fingers.” Molly raised an eyebrow. “You’re seriously thinking we dress as clowns? Bill, last time your makeup looked like a raccoon fight.” “Hey,” Bill said, poking the air defensively, “that was avant-garde. Modern art. Besides, kids love a little chaos.” “As long as that doesn’t involve paint in the cake.” Bill pulled out a crumpled plan. “Step one: distract with balloon animals. Step two: locate the gift pile. Step three: execute the simultaneous grab-and-go.” Molly nodded. “And step four?” “Step four,” Bill smiled, “escape through the backyard, where I’ve parked the van disguised as a pony ride.” Molly laughed softly. “You’re insane. But if we pull this off, we’ll be the greatest party crashers—er, thieves—this town’s ever seen.” “Exactly. Now, ready to clown around?” “More ready than ever.”