Run: 2026-09-23-01M37HVFCVA4ABF86GTD1JKZMQ

Molly crouched behind the inflatable castle, studying the birthday party through a gap in its turrets. Inside, children shrieked with the limitless energy of people who had eaten cake before noon. Bill arrived carrying a clipboard and wearing a paper hat. “Tell me you brought the diversion,” Molly said. “I brought a clipboard. People trust clipboards.” “People trust clowns. Did you hire a clown?” “The clown wanted eighty pounds and a parking permit.” Molly pointed toward a mountain of wrapped presents beneath the snack table. “We need to reach those before the magician finishes.” “Easy. I’ll tell everyone there’s a surprise outside.” “There is a surprise outside?” Bill considered the question. “A duck.” “That’s the neighbour’s duck. It’s been outside all morning.” “Then I’ll call it a special appearance.” He strode into the garden and clapped his hands. Molly watched three children surround him. One took his clipboard; another demanded a balloon animal. The third asked why his hat said HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EMILY. Bill looked desperately toward Molly. She entered with the confidence of a woman who had once returned a half-eaten sandwich. “Good news,” she announced. “We’ve come to collect the presents.” Emily’s mother looked up from cutting cake. “Excellent. Take them to the car, please. The shelter closes at four.” Molly and Bill exchanged glances. Neither had planned on being useful.