Run: 2026-02-20-01KHY80MHJ9PZFED4KFBW4BWAN

The neon glow of the party store’s *Kids’ Carnival* sign flickered like a dying firefly as Molly adjusted her oversized clown wig, the elastic digging into her temples. She’d stolen it from a magician’s trunk last week—*very* questionable ethics, but the red nose and rainbow polka-dots were perfect camouflage. Bill, already inside the store’s back alley, leaned against the dumpster, chewing on a stolen candy cane like it was the last one on Earth. His getup—a jester’s hat with bells that jingled with every nervous twitch—was held together by duct tape and a prayer. Molly crouched beside him, her gloved fingers brushing the lock on the delivery door. “You sure this is the night?” she whispered, though the question was more for her own sanity than his. The alley smelled like stale popcorn and regret. Bill shrugged, bells clattering. “The kid’s parents are at some *very* boring wine tasting. Also, the security system’s older than my grandma’s cat.” She shot him a look. “That’s not reassuring.” “It’s *accurate*.” Inside, the party favors—giant stuffed unicorns, glow-in-the-dark slime, and enough plastic swords to arm a small army—waited like a treasure trove. Molly took a deep breath, the wig itching. “Alright. Distract the clown. I’ll hit the presents.” Bill grinned, his face half-hidden under the jester hat. “Easiest heist ever.” Molly wasn’t so sure. But then again, when had she ever been?