Run: 2026-03-18-01KM08W6SEJVZ4X764K4R6W4EF

Molly flattened the glittering envelope in her palm and peered at the townhouse. Balloons bobbed in the window like nervous spies, and the sound of children chanting “Pin the Tail” drifted through the brick. Bill adjusted his striped scarf and tried to look sinister, which on him mostly suggested a librarian with a tax issue. “Remind me,” Molly whispered, “why are we robbing a seven-year-old’s birthday?” Bill grinned. “Because he’s got better loot than the museum.” “You mean presents.” “Presents are loot with ribbons.” Molly watched a parent carry in another tower of wrapped boxes. “That one’s larger than my first apartment.” “Exactly. We go in, mingle, become invisible, and leave with the haul.” “‘Mingle’?” she said. “You want to socialize while committing a felony?” Bill shrugged. “It’s a children’s party. Everyone expects awkward adults.” “Bill, the last time you improvised, we escaped a petting zoo with a flamingo and a juice box.” “That was strategy.” A burst of laughter rolled from inside. Molly sighed, tugged on her gloves, and smiled despite herself. “Fine,” she said. “But if anyone asks, we’re face painters.” Bill nodded solemnly. “Professional face painters.” Outside, the cake candles flickered like tiny, unhelpful witnesses already counting.