Run: 2026-10-27-01M5YJENKWG8394P3MSMWW4SCN

“Molly, the invitation says ‘pirates and princesses.’ Which are we?” Bill asked. “Neither. We’re the entertainment. You’re Captain Bill, and I’m a terrifyingly competent mermaid.” “Mermaids don’t have legs.” “This one does. Budget cuts.” “Fine. How do we get the presents past thirty children and one suspicious grandmother?” “The piñata,” Molly said. “We empty it, fill it with presents, and carry it out.” “Won’t anyone notice the piñata is shaped like a dishwasher?” “Not if we act confident.” “What about the birthday boy?” “Distract him with your balloon animals.” “My balloon animals all look like worms.” “Excellent. Tell him it’s a worm-themed party now.” “And the grandmother?” “Compliment her potato salad.” “She made the cake.” “Then compliment her cake.” “What if she didn’t make it?” “Bill, we’re thieves, not investigative journalists.” “What if the children catch us?” “We apologize, return everything, and pretend it was a treasure hunt.” “That’s your escape plan?” “It’s also our business model. Look, I brought little medals.” “Why does mine say PARTICIPANT?” “Because I made the plan.” “Is there a medal for me if we actually steal everything?” “Yes. It says SUSPECT. Now put on your eyepatch and stop making those worm noises, Captain Bill.”