Run: 2026-09-23-01M37HGS231A8KJV3KB88M6NWN

“The party starts at two,” Molly said. “We go in as entertainers, find the presents, and leave.” “Entertainers?” Bill said. “What kind?” “Magicians. I have a cape.” “You have a shower curtain.” “It has stars.” “It has mildew.” Molly spread a crayon map across the table. “Here’s the garden. Here’s the cake. Here’s the gift table.” “Why is the gift table drawn as a dragon?” “Because I asked my nephew to draw it.” “Are we stealing the dragon?” “We’re stealing the presents, Bill. You carry the sack while I distract everyone.” “With a trick?” “With a speech about how magic works.” “Children hate speeches.” “Exactly. They’ll go inside.” Bill studied the map. “What if someone asks us to perform?” “Pull a coin from a child’s ear.” “I can’t.” “Then give the child a coin and say the trick went backwards.” “That’s actually rather good.” “Thank you.” “Whose party is it?” “My nephew’s.” Bill lowered the map. “Molly.” “What?” “You said he drew this yesterday.” “He did.” “And you told him about the dragon?” “He asked where to put his presents.” Bill folded his arms. “We’re not doing this.” Molly sighed. “Fine. But I still want to wear the cape.” “Wear it. We’ll bring him a present.” “You buy it.” “I’ll bring the coin.”