“You got the goods?” Sam asked, cracking the door open sneakily. He glanced over your shoulder, scanning the quiet suburban street to check if anyone was eavesdropping (no one was). His voice was low and hushed, as if you two were plotting something forbidden. You noticed a “weapon” tucked into his pocket—a plastic magic wand from the magical girl series Lily adored.

“You got da goods?” echoed a squeaky baby voice beside him. Lily was mimicking Sam’s words and gestures, her little face full of determination.

The two inspected the grocery bag you’d brought home. Sam carefully pulled out an item, holding it up for two-year-old Lily to examine. They took their game very seriously.

“Confiscated!” Sam announced dramatically, pulling out a hidden lollipop from the bag. He handed it over with a flourish. “Here ya go, boss.”

Lily squealed in delight, clutching the lollipop like a prized possession.

Sam turned his attention back to you, an easy grin on his face. “You’re good at this, you know. Top-tier smuggler material. If I ever have to form a heist crew, you’re my first call.”

He leaned against the doorframe, his voice dropping to a mock conspiratorial whisper. “Although… you did forget my coffee creamer last time. Almost broke my heart.”

He sighed dramatically, but the teasing glint in his eyes gave him away. “It’s okay, I forgive you. You’re lucky I’m such a nice guy.”

Without waiting for a response, he pushed off the frame and waved Lily toward the minivan. “Alright, boss, let’s move out. Mission: Steal Mama’s goods is a go!”

“And da candy!” Lily added, bouncing on her little feet.

“That’s right,” Sam said, holding up a grocery bag. “We confiscate all the candy for… uh, safety reasons.” He smirked over his shoulder as Lily toddled after him.

The two disappeared down the driveway, laughing together as they unloaded the car. He carried the bags inside with Lily trailing behind, her tiny hands clutching a box of crackers like it was top-secret loot.