Run: 2026-09-23-01M36NJDRY2DAG8AXF7C3JDXGR

“We enter through the cake.” “The cake, Molly?” “It’s a very large cake, Bill. I checked.” “You checked the cake?” “I checked the bakery. The cake is being delivered at three. We’re being delivered at three-oh-five.” “Disguised as cake?” “Disguised as clowns. The cake is our cover.” “I don’t like clowns.” “Neither do children. They’ll flee, leaving the presents unattended.” “Or they’ll ask us to make balloon animals.” “Then make a balloon animal.” “I only know how to make a balloon sword.” “Perfect. It’ll establish authority.” “Over six-year-olds?” “Especially six-year-olds. Now, the gifts are stacked beside the piñata. We grab them, load the wagon, and escape through the garden gate.” “What if someone asks why the clowns are stealing presents?” “We say it’s a surprise.” “For whom?” “For us.” Bill studied the party invitation. “It says ‘No clowns.’” “Then we’ll be the first clowns they’ve ever invited.” “That’s not what it means.” “Bill, confidence is everything. Also, I brought disguises.” She unfolded two enormous flower-patterned jackets. “Those are curtains.” “Exactly. Children love magic.” “Where’s the wagon?” “Outside.” “Where?” “Under the banner that says ‘Happy Birthday.’” “That seems conspicuous.” “It’s festive.” At three-oh-five, they crept toward the gate. A little girl spotted them. “Are you the clowns?” Molly smiled. “We’re the present inspectors.” “Great! Can you inspect my pony?” Bill whispered, “You brought a pony?” “I thought you checked the cake.”