Run: 2026-04-24-01KQ0N680C2BAM0SXXA7510J3C

Molly pressed her nose to the bakery window. “There it is, Bill: Princess Poppy’s birthday, three o’clock, community hall, presents stacked like a glittery mountain.” Bill squinted. “A mountain guarded by toddlers, mothers, and a clown named Captain Sprinkles.” “Clowns are weak at the knees.” “Everyone is weak at the knees, Molly. That’s where knees are.” “We enter disguised as entertainers.” “Please say magicians.” “Balloon sculptors.” “I can make one animal.” “A snake?” “A regret.” “Fine. You distract the children with your tragic balloon. I locate the gifts.” “And then?” “We swap them for empty boxes.” Bill gasped. “Empty? On a birthday? That’s low.” “We’re thieves.” “I’m a thief with standards. Also, what if there’s cake?” “No cake.” “Then I’m out.” “You’ll get a slice after.” “Chocolate?” “Probably.” “Probably is not a flavor.” Inside, a child shouted, “Free cupcakes for helpers!” Bill straightened his tie. “New plan: we become helpers.” Molly sighed. “Bill.” “What? We steal the presents later.” “After cupcakes?” “After thank-you notes. We’re not monsters.” Molly smiled. “For criminals, we are dangerously polite.” “And underprepared.” “Speak for yourself. I brought sprinkles.” Bill whispered, “For bribing the clown?” “For seasoning victory.” “That’s illegal.” “Everything today is illegal, Bill, apparently.”