Run: 2026-02-16-01KHK3C6XRGS488PFM1R64T99Y

The rain slicked the black van parked across from community center. Molly adjusted the night vision goggles, squinting through the lens at the brightly lit windows where shadows danced like manic puppets. Bill sat in the passenger seat, unwrapping a granola bar with the precision of a bomb disposal expert. "The security outside is actually much tighter than I originally thought it would be," Molly said, tapping the glass. Bill nodded, chewing slowly while watching a clown stumble out the back door for a cigarette. The clown lit up, looking exhausted, his red nose slightly askew. "That clown standing outside smoking is a major variable for us," Bill said. Molly lowered the goggles, her eyes reflecting the green glow of the dashboard. She picked up a laminated floor plan of the venue, tracing the route from the back alley to the gift table. Parents spared no expense for toddler extravaganzas. "We go in during the magic show specifically," Molly said. Bill swallowed the last of his bar and brushed crumbs from his tactical vest. He looked at the clown again, who was now flicking ash onto his oversized shoes. "What about the parents watching the show closely?" Bill asked. Molly pointed to the schedule pinned on the clipboard. The magic show lasted twenty minutes. That was their window. Twenty minutes to swipe wrapped boxes of Lego and generic gift cards before vanishing into the night. It was a tight schedule. "They will be completely distracted by the rabbits," Molly said. Bill sighed, leaning back until the seat creaked under his weight. He picked at a loose thread on his glove, contemplating the morality of stealing from a six-year-old. It was not their finest hour, but nobody got hurt except feelings. "Okay, but if I see a bouncy castle, I am leaving immediately without you," Bill said. Molly smiled, a sharp expression that did not reach her eyes. She started the engine, letting it purr quietly while they waited for the assistant to bring out the top hat. The rain continued to fall, washing away the tire tracks. "Just keep your head down low," Molly said. Bill nodded one last time, checking the lock on his side door. The clown flicked his cigarette into a puddle and went back inside. The show was starting. "Do we have the loot bags ready?" Bill asked. Molly patted the empty sacks on the dashboard. They were prepared for everything except guilt. "Always pack the loot bags first," Molly said. "What if there is a large piñata inside?" Bill asked. Molly checked her watch. The second hand ticked toward zero. They had no time for candy distractions or sugar rushes fast. "Leave the piñata behind completely," Molly said. "It holds the really good candy," Bill said. "We are strictly here for the presents only," Molly said. Bill shrugged, accepting the limitation of their greedy profession. He gripped the handle of the door, ready to move when the signal came. "Fine, but I want the chocolate bars and the gummy bears," Bill said. Molly shifted the van into gear. The engine roared to life, signaling the start of dangerous operation. "Take the chocolate then, just hurry up fast," Molly said. "We split the sugar later," Bill said. "Agreed," Molly said. "Ready to move?" Bill asked. "Always ready," Molly said. "Let's go soon," Molly said. "Moving," Bill said.