Run: 2026-09-23-01M37HAVSKTHQSW51X00HGGZYG

From behind the hedge, Molly watched a parade of paper crowns bob through the garden. On the picnic table sat a mountain of presents, guarded by a seven-year-old with a foam sword. “We go in during the treasure hunt,” Molly whispered. “Children are terrifying during treasure hunts,” Bill said. “Last year one bit my shoelace clean through.” “That was a dog.” “It had a party hat.” Molly unfolded her plan. It was a napkin covered in arrows and a drawing of a horse. “Why is there a horse?” Bill asked. “Distraction.” “Where do we get a horse?” “We don’t. I got carried away.” A shout rose from the garden. The birthday boy had discovered the cake. Molly pointed to the open gate. “We pose as entertainers. You juggle, I collect the presents.” “I can juggle two things.” “Perfect. Juggle one thing twice.” Bill picked up two pinecones. He stepped through the gate and tossed one into the air. It landed in the punch bowl. The children cheered. A parent hurried over, pressed twenty pounds into Bill’s hand, and asked if he did weddings. Molly stared at the money, then at the presents. With grave professionalism, she caught the second pinecone. The birthday boy knighted them both with his foam sword.