Run: 2026-03-18-01KM099Y63CWV5YGEB391EREQJ

Molly peered through the bakery window at the rainbow balloons wobbling over the hall next door. “There,” she whispered, “a fortress of frosting and weak security.” Bill adjusted his cap. “You keep calling every place a fortress.” “Because every place has a door,” Molly said, “and every door has a fool nearby.” Bill squinted at the invitation he’d stolen from the trash. “It says the party starts at two, includes games, cake, and a magician.” “Perfect,” Molly said. “Magicians love distraction. Children love noise. Parents love sitting down. We arrive as harmless volunteers.” Bill frowned. “I don’t know how to be harmless.” “You already are,” Molly said. “Just hold a tray.” He nodded. “And then?” “We blend in, praise the balloon arch, compliment the puppet theater, and wait for the present pile to grow complacent.” Bill looked nervous. “What if a kid asks questions?” Molly smiled. “Then we say we are the Official Gift Relocation Team.” “That sounds fake.” “Exactly,” Molly said. “Fake is the foundation of confidence.” A burst of children’s laughter shook the hall. Bill swallowed. “How do we carry them out?” Molly tapped the shopping cart hidden behind the hedge. “In batches.” Bill blinked. “That’s your plan?” Molly grinned. “Bill, darling, every great theft begins with cake and ends with logistics.”