Run: 2026-09-23-01M37J2NQEFT0A71JV2QEED5ND

Molly spread a crayon map across the café table. The birthday party occupied a community hall shaped, according to her drawing, like a suspicious potato. Bill studied the paper while a balloon bobbed against the ceiling above them. “The presents are by the cake,” Molly said. “We slip in during the magician’s act.” “How?” “Through the front door. We’re dressed as guests.” Bill looked down at his pirate costume. “I’m dressed as a pirate.” “Children love pirates.” “Do they love pirates carrying empty sacks?” “Tell them they’re for treasure.” Bill tapped the map. “What’s the squiggle beside the cake?” “An adult making balloon animals.” “That squiggle has a whistle.” “A precaution.” “Against what?” “Pirates, apparently.” At noon, they reached the hall. Molly wore a paper crown; Bill carried two sacks. Through the window, they saw a mountain of bright packages, a magician pulling ribbons from his sleeve, and twelve children chanting for cake. Molly reached for the door. “Wait,” Bill said. “What if they ask whose parents we are?” “Say we’re here for the magician.” “He hired pirates?” Before Molly could answer, the door opened. A child pointed at Bill. “Finally! The pirate for musical chairs!” The children seized his hands. Molly stayed near the presents until the music stopped. Bill won, accidentally. His prize was a bag of sweets.