Run: 2026-09-23-01M36NZ2BW4B61V60JZZS2XQ4D

Molly unfolded a napkin across the laundromat table, revealing a sketch of the hall. Bill studied an invitation showing cartoon dinosaurs guarding wrapped gifts. Their plan: enter during musical chairs, when every adult would be watching children collide with furniture, then leave with presents before anyone noticed the decorations had improved. “Eight o’clock, we slip inside, smile, become helpful party guests,” Molly whispered. “Helpful guests don’t carry sacks big enough for small sofas,” Bill said. He displayed two duck-embroidered pillowcases. Molly approved the disguise but objected to his burglar’s mask, which featured eyeholes and a luxurious feather boa. Bill insisted the boa was essential camouflage; children trusted anything sparkly, especially if it might be edible. They rehearsed their entrance behind a vending machine. Molly practiced carrying a gift, looking innocent. Bill practiced looking innocent while carrying six gifts, then toppled into a rack of novelty yo-yos. The machine swallowed his coins and returned one rubber chicken. At the hall, balloons bobbed above the door like alarms. Through the window, parents arranged cupcakes while a tiny magician pulled scarves from his sleeve. Molly nudged Bill toward the entrance. He clutched the chicken, reconsidering their priorities as the children began singing.