Run: 2026-09-23-01M37HNM0N5YYW6XK5GYK07M2N

Molly crouched behind the hedge, studying the garden. Balloons bobbed above the fence like brightly coloured warning flags. Somewhere inside, a child shrieked with delight. Bill flinched. “Remind me why we’re doing this,” he whispered. “Because the presents are unguarded.” “They’re guarded by children.” “Exactly. Easily distracted.” “Last time you said that, a seven-year-old bit me.” “You tried to steal his cake.” “I thought it was a jewellery box.” Molly peered through the gate. A magician in a purple cape was wrestling a balloon into the shape of a giraffe. The children watched, spellbound. Beside the patio, a mountain of wrapped parcels waited beneath a tablecloth. “That’s our moment,” she said. “We slip in wearing these.” Bill examined the paper hats she handed him. His said BIRTHDAY PRINCESS. “Do I look like a birthday princess?” “You look like someone who needs to hurry.” They entered behind a parent carrying lemonade. Molly reached the present pile first, pulled back the cloth, and froze. Beneath it sat a large, sleepy dog. “New plan,” she murmured. “Good,” Bill said. “I’ve always wanted one.” The dog opened one eye, took Bill’s hat, and fell asleep again. From across the lawn, the magician called, “For my next trick, two volunteers!” Every child turned toward them.