The Fall – A Short Story in Three Parts – Part One
This is a short story in three parts, by 10 year old Alice
My mates are all leaning against the peeling black-painted gate, chatting and laughing, while I stand, nearby, twitching nervously.
“Oi,” Jules waves for me to come over to him. “Now, I have a suggestion. Kieran here,” he pauses, gesturing to me by his head, “is new to our gang. What about we see if he is worthy, eh?”
They all chuckle, nodding, with sly grins. I don’t understand.
Jules raises his eyebrows. Jules’s blonde curls, flapping in the wind, obviously getting in his eyes, always lure girls in.
A stout boy, leans over, and Jules whispers in his ear. He laughs, and tells the other boys. But not me.
“I have a friend up those steps, Flat 33. Go get some skunk for us, okay?” Jules flings a several notes at me, and I bend over to pick up the missed one.
I have no idea what skunk is. I have no idea what this money is for, what is up those stairs, or what is on the third floor. And I especially have no idea what is on Flat 33. I don’t really want to have an idea what any of them are.
I pause, trying to work out my odds.
“Awh, are you scared? Awh… lil’ baby Kieran is scared…” a spotty boy says, patronisingly.
I flatten out my fleece, and finger my ear piercing that I never really wanted. “Am not,” I say limply, and head towards the stairs Jules was pointing me towards, shivering in fear. Once I am out of the gang’s sight, I scurry to the top of the stairs, and flatten myself on the nearest wall. I check my surroundings. Grimy white walls, dusty steps, bent rails, squawking of birds, faint clomp of high-heels, and a strong musty smell.
Hearing the gang laughing, saying I will never do it, I straighten my back, and I stomp up another two flights of stairs. Once I get to the second floor, I wince. I just want to cower into a ball, and fly back down the stairs, and go right back home – no, not home, to somewhere safe. But I can’t. Ican’tIcan’tIcan’t! While still hunched, I stare along the balconies either side of me. Squinting terribly, I can make out three doors on my right and one says ‘16’. It must be on the other side. Turning towards the left, I hope for no risks. I am still clutching a crumpled collection of notes. I decide this isn’t a safe call, and stuff them into my fleece pockets, trembling. I reach Flat 33. I freeze. Gathering up every last morsel of courage inside me, I force my hand forward. It shoots forward, hitting a single bash on the door.
All I can hear is grumbling, creaking, and soft footsteps. My heart misses a beat as the door opens.
He looks me up and down. “Here to buy?”
I nod my head. He ushers me in. His flat smells strongly of that smell of the wood chip in a children’s playground, and a tomato plant. It made me feel slightly light-headed it was so strong. An over-powering smell of cigarettes oozed from the walls, making me feel dizzy and sick. I try not to breathe it in, but I soon run out of breath. It’s horrible.
“So, who told you about this place?” the man said, his voice crackly with age. He had a pipe in his mouth, sticking out diagonally.
“Jules, he said you were a friend to him,” I say, trying to mimic his bold Cockney accent.
“Ah yes, that arrogant Jules. Brash young thing he is,” he said. “So, what do you want?”
“Skunk,” I say, uncertainly.
He gives me a look, with no real emotions, or indications of what he is thinking. He picks out a small plastic bag, filled with a murky green powdery substance inside. He lifts up his hands, and raises his eyebrows. He obviously doesn’t think I can pay it. Confidently, I stuff the notes into his palm, beaming.
He shuffles through the small heap of crumpled notes. “You’re five quid off.”
My face sinks. “That was all he gave me.”
“Ah, my prices have risen,” he smirks. “I’ll make him pay it when he next comes. That happened last time, made one of his mates get it for him. Lazy lad he is. He has to pay £10 extra you know… and it’s still rising…”
I let him burble for a bit, while I back towards the door, holding the tiny plastic bag in my clammy hand. When I get the chance, I slip, “Thank you!” in his babble, and leave.
I fled down the flights of stairs, but once I was in the eye-view of the gang, I slowed down and coolly strolled. Jules gave everyone a cigarette, who casually slipped it between their fingers, and filled it with a tiny portion of the murky green powder, and inhaled. I tried to copy everyone with holding the cigarette properly, but it kept on slipping. After I filled it with the last of the green powder, I took a long, anticipated breath.
It was…. calming. It was addictive.
How To Get Noticed as an Artist – Teen Art Gallery, New York
Young people find it tricky to get noticed as an artist – the art world can be intimidating. This group of young artists celebrate and exhibit their art in the Teen Art Gallery, run in New York by teens. Our Sally-Anne caught up with director Charlotte Bravin Lee to find out more.
What Does Brexit Mean for Kids?
The British have voted to leave the European Union, but what does this mean, and what does Brexit mean for kids?
Most of you will have heard of the EU Referendum, known as BREXIT (which stands for BRitish Exit). If you don’t know what a referendum is, then this is a good place to find out more.
We asked some of our readers what questions they had about BREXIT. These questions are difficult to answer right now because even the experts don’t know exactly what will happen, but here’s what we know so far. If you have any questions, comment on this post and we’ll try to find the answers for you.
Win Real Cash Prizes Daily with Fun Mobile Games
Win Real Cash Prizes Daily with Fun Mobile Games
Imagine a rainy afternoon, a quick coffee break, or a lazy Sunday morning—moments when your phone feels like an extension of your hand. Now imagine turning that idle thumb-scrolling into something genuinely rewarding. That is exactly where the world of on-the-go gaming meets the thrill of tangible rewards. With a platform designed for pure entertainment and daily chances to win, you can explore a variety of games that pay out real cash prizes. Whether you are a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, the experience is built to feel effortless and exciting. For those looking to dive in, you can check out https://funbetgb.uk and see what all the buzz is about. The mobile interface is sleek, responsive, and makes every tap feel like a step closer to something big.
Turning Your Phone into a Prize Machine
Gone are the days when mobile games were just about high scores or vanity points. Today, developers have mastered the art of blending simple mechanics with real-world incentives. The idea is straightforward: pick a game, play a round, and if luck is on your side, a cash reward lands in your account. It is not a complicated formula, and that is precisely why it works so well. You do not need to be a math genius or a strategy guru. All you need is a willingness to have fun and a smartphone that fits in your pocket. The games range from quick-match puzzles to spinning wheels of fortune, each designed to be completed in under a minute. This makes them perfect for moments when you are waiting in line or unwinding after a long day.
A Rich Variety of Playable Experiences
The mobile app does not rely on a single gimmick. Instead, it offers a curated collection of games that appeal to different tastes. Some players love the suspense of a live roulette-style spinner where the ball dances around before settling on a numbered slot. Others prefer the logic-driven satisfaction of a card game where memory and quick thinking matter as much as chance. There are also arcade-style challenges where you tap targets or swipe objects to clear a board, earning points that convert into cash. Every game shares one common thread: it is designed to be fair and transparent. The outcomes are randomized, but the rules are always clear before you start. This ensures that every session feels genuine, not rigged or frustrating.
Understanding the Reward Structure
Winning cash daily is not a marketing slogan; it is a real possibility built into the app’s core. The system typically works on a tiered prize ladder. Smaller prizes like a few dollars or credits drop frequently, keeping the momentum alive even if you do not hit a jackpot. Meanwhile, larger payouts are rarer but always within reach. Many users report that dedicated play over a week often yields at least one significant win. The key is consistency. The more you engage, the more opportunities you create. Below is a quick comparison of typical game types and their prize potential:
| Game Category | Average Round Time | Prize Range | Skill vs. Luck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Card Games | 30–60 seconds | Small to medium | Balanced |
| Spinner Wheels | 10–20 seconds | Small to large | Pure luck |
| Arcade Challenges | 45–90 seconds | Small to medium | Mostly skill |
| Quick Puzzles | 20–40 seconds | Small only | Mostly skill |
As the table shows, there is a place for both casual players who enjoy pure luck and more serious gamers who want to flex their reflexes. The variety ensures that boredom never sets in. You can switch between categories as your mood shifts, which keeps the entire experience fresh and engaging.
Building a Daily Routine Around Winning
One of the most appealing aspects of this mobile app is how naturally it fits into a daily routine. Unlike traditional casino platforms that might require a significant time commitment, these games are bite-sized. You can play three rounds while your coffee brews, or squeeze in a few spins during a lunch break. Over time, many players find themselves developing a gentle habit. Not an addiction, but a pleasant ritual that adds a spark of anticipation to an ordinary day. The interface also provides a clear tracker of your wins and losses, so you always know where you stand. This transparency helps you manage your time and expectations wisely.
Common Questions and Quick Answers
It is normal to have questions when you start something new. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions by players who have already taken the plunge.
1. Is the app free to download?
Yes, the app itself costs nothing to install. It is available through standard app stores and does not require any upfront payment to access the games.
2. How do I withdraw my cash winnings?
Winnings are typically transferred to your account within a few business days. The exact method depends on the region, but options usually include bank transfers or e-wallets.
3. Do I need to pay to play every round?
Not necessarily. Most games offer free practice rounds, but real cash prizes are only available in paid rounds. You can choose your stake before each game.
4. Is there a limit on how much I can win per day?
There is no universal cap, but individual prize thresholds vary per game. Some games have daily maximums to ensure fair distribution across the player base.
5. Can I play with friends or family?
While the app is primarily a single-player experience, there are occasional leaderboards and special events that allow for friendly competition.
6. What happens if I lose internet connection mid-game?
Your progress is automatically saved, and you can resume the round once the connection stabilizes. Winnings from completed rounds are never lost due to connection issues.
Key Takeaways for New Players
If you are considering giving this mobile gaming experience a try, here are a few important points to keep in mind as you get started:
- Start small: Use the free rounds to understand the mechanics before risking any real money. This builds confidence and familiarity.
- Set a budget: Decide in advance how much time and money you want to spend. Stick to that limit to keep the experience fun and stress-free.
- Mix it up: Play different game types to discover which ones suit your style. You might find that spinner wheels are your lucky charm, or that card games test your patience in a good way.
- Check notifications: The app sometimes offers daily bonus spins or special events. Keeping an eye on these can give you extra chances to win without extra cost.
- Stay informed: Read the rules of each game carefully. Some prizes have specific conditions, such as minimum gameplay or required multipliers.
The Final Spin
There is something inherently joyful about the marriage of play and profit. When the game ends and a cash reward appears on your screen, it feels less like a transaction and more like a celebration. The mobile app captures that feeling perfectly, offering a daily dose of excitement that does not demand too much from you. It respects your time, values your attention, and rewards your presence. Whether you are looking for a new hobby, a way to spice up your commute, or simply a chance to win a little extra money, this platform delivers. The future of mobile entertainment is interactive, rewarding, and surprisingly personal. All you need to do is tap, play, and see what happens.



