Symbiosis (Redux)

by levelxtremedude

Symbiosis is any type of close and long-term biological interaction between two different biological organisms, be it mutualistic, communalistic, or parasitic. What Venom wanted was mutual, so a piece wanted to get back to its former host. Now Peter has to deal with the alien once again and an old flame with a secret that could potentially change his life. (AU)

3. Chapter 3

Disclaimer:Spider-man and other Marvel-related content belong to Disney Marvel Entertainment. Any other content that includes OC's or plot belong to me. Please enjoy this soft reboot of the original story Symbiosis.

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Arc 1: Back in Black

Chapter 3: The Old Flame

Hardy Penthouse 8:00 am

[SFX: Upbeat jingle]

Announcer: It's eight o'clock sharp, New Yorkers! And you know what that means? Time for your daily dose of reality with J. Jonah Jameson on "Just the Facts!" Today topic: Web of Lies or Web-Slinger Savior? Now here's your host J. Jonah Jameson!

Jameson: (booming voice) My fellow New Yorkers! Buckle up for your first dose of the only truth-telling podcast this city's ever seen: Just the Facts with J. Jonah Jameson! Broadcasting live from the heart of the Daily Bugle, here to rip the mask off the threats you don't even know about! Let's dive into the calls. Hit me with your best shot! (gruffly) Speak!

Civilian: (slightly nervous) Alright, Mr. Jameson, listen. You gotta give Spider-Man some credit! Saving those folks from that teetering tower at Rykers? Webbing the whole thing together? Come on, doesn't that count for something? Can't we lay off the Spidey-smearing for a minute?

Jameson: (scoffs) "Credit"? Is that a fact, caller? Now, are you a police commissioner? A district attorney? Maybe a decorated firefighter? Perhaps an award-winning journalist with decades of experience exposing the truth, like myself?

Civilian: (stammers) Uh, no sir. Actually, I'm a plumber.

Jameson: (triumphant) Ah, excellent! Now, stick to fixing leaky pipes and leave the real talking to professionals! Let me tell you something about that Rykers Island "incident"! It was a staged operation; a publicity stunt Spider-Man was probably in on from the start! How do you think he waltzed past security, huh? Just happened to be there, ready to play hero? No siree! I've been exposing him for the menace he truly is! It's all a ploy, I tell you! A way to win over the public before he pulls the rug from under everyone's feet!

Civilian: (undeterred) Look, Mr. Jameson, I've seen Spider-Man pull some pretty incredible stuff. Pulling subway cars out of wrecks, lifting cars to save people... Until I see him turn rogue with my own two eyes, I'm siding with the web-head.

Jameson: (exasperated) You and the rest of these naive sheep will be singing a different tune when he reveals his true colors! Now, goodbye! Don't waste any more of my valuable airtime with your Spider-Man sympathies!

(Sound of phone hanging up abruptly)

Jameson: There you have it, folks! Sheep following a wolf in sheep's clothing! But don't worry, J. Jonah Jameson will be here, every day, to expose the web of lies! Until next time, New York… stay vigilant!

Felicia Hardy, the notorious Black Cat. A cat burglar from a young age, Felicia honed her skills in fighting and acrobatics. Thrill was her drug, ever since the trauma of her ex-boyfriend Ryan's assault. Revenge hadn't brought solace; Ryan died a drunk driver's death. So, Felicia used her talents to amass a fortune in stolen goods, always one step ahead of the law - and tangling with New York's friendly neighborhood Spider-Man.

She flicked off the radio. Even after all these years, it burned her that Peter let J. Jonah Jameson of the Daily Bugle smear him like a chump. Why didn't he just deck the guy? It wasn't fair.

"Peter..." Felicia rolled over, staring at the ceiling. She'd never gotten over him. Well, not exactly. The Spider-Man, maybe. How many years had it been since they were an item before he got engaged to that redhead? Four, six? It didn't matter. They'd just been fooling around anyway. Then came the night they revealed their secret identities. Her mother was out of town, on some business meeting with potential partners. Felicia sat up in bed, hugging her knees, the memory vivid as yesterday. A sigh escaped her lips as the conversation replayed in her mind.

"-And turned him, Peter Parker, into the Spectacular Spider-Man!" Peter stood there, mask in hand, having just unmasked himself. He'd figured out she was the Black Cat, daughter of the glamorous socialite Lydia Hardy and the infamous cat burglar Walter Hardy. Shock painted Felicia's face as he continued, "We never revealed our secrets to protect those we love. But now that we know, it means we love each other, Felicia. From this day on, we share our lives."

Peter beamed, but the platinum blonde wasn't on board with the whole "Peter Parker" thing.

"Spider..."

"Yeah?"

"Your mask..."

"What about it?"

"Put it back on! NOW!" She practically shrieked, wrapping her arms around herself.

Peter rushed to comfort her. "Felicia, what's wrong? Did I say something? I just wanted to be open with you! No secrets, remember? I love you, all of you!"

Felicia looked away, discomfort twisting her features. "And I love you... SPIDER-MAN!"

Peter's jaw dropped. Here they were, revealing their deepest secret, and Felicia chose...chose...the mask. It hit him like a Rhino punch. He covered his face with both hands, staring at the lenses for a beat.

A lump formed in his throat. The truth was undeniable. "I see," He said, voice thick. "As Peter Parker...I bore you. But as Spider-Man..." He snapped the mask back on. "...I excite you."

That single moment twisted her gut. The more she replayed it, the angrier it made her. Was it knowing he was with another woman now? Or something deeper? Deep down, she knew. She'd never given Peter Parker a chance, just like she'd never embraced her civilian life as Felicia Hardy.

Another memory surfaced - a visit to Peter's apartment during the alien black suit phase. But a more vivid one pushed forward: the cemetery.

"Peter! You've gotta be kidding me!" Felicia sputtered. "Why'd you drag me here?"

Peter remained silent; his gaze fixed on a tombstone. Felicia's annoyance melted as she read the inscription: Benjamin Franklin "Ben" Parker. "Who in the world is..."

"My Uncle Ben," Peter said, his voice low. "Today's the anniversary of his death. A robber I could have stopped at the amateur wrestling arena but didn't. The Spider-Man you love wouldn't exist if...I'd stop the burglar."

Felicia's eyes widened in shock. Understanding dawned, washing away her annoyance. She grabbed his hand, her voice thick with sympathy. "Peter, I'm so sorry..."

Peter squeezed her hand back. "I wanted you to see, Felicia. To understand why I do what I do. Maybe even make Peter Parker a little less...unappealing. I just want you to accept that civilian side of yourself if you can. With me."

Felicia's heart ached. Peter, ever the selfless hero, even in his grief. He wasn't just trying to win her over; he was trying to bridge the gap between his two worlds, hoping she could see the man beneath the mask - the man she might have loved if she'd let him be Peter.

'Back then, I was a whirlwind of bad choices. A spoiled rich girl drawn to danger, mirroring my own father's shadowed past. Was it wrong to crave excitement?' Felicia squeezed her eyes shut, the memory of Peter's wounded gaze flashing through her mind. She'd loved the thrill of Spider-Man, the hero, but couldn't accept the vulnerability of Peter Parker, the man. It took time, but eventually, she understood his need for normalcy. Felicia had been blind, unable to grasp that Peter Parker was just that - a man yearning for a normal life.

Time, however, had a way of softening edges. Their occasional "booty calls" had unexpectedly blossomed into something more. A smile tugged at Felicia's lips as she glanced towards the left, where a tiny bundle lay nestled in a blanket next to her. Peter's last gift to her, before their paths diverged. Nine months carrying their child, Felicity, had been a revelation. Now, with a baby girl who wormed her way into Felicia's heart over four years.

Motherhood was a trial by fire. Felicia finally understood the allure of normalcy. Every day, she came home to bright eyes and infectious laughter. This tiny human, with startling blue eyes peeking through the eyelids and a sandy blonde crown – a beautiful blend of Felicia's platinum and Peter's hint of brown – had wormed her way in, replacing the thrill-seeking emptiness with a fierce, protective love. Felicia would do anything for her daughter. She was Peter's identical twin only if the gender was reversed.

Yet, a heavy secret remained. Fear of Peter's reaction kept her silent for years. How would he handle fatherhood, especially considering their tumultuous past? The uncertainty gnawed at her, a constant reminder of the bridge she'd burned.

The thrill of the Black Cat no longer held the same allure. It felt reckless, irresponsible, a risk she couldn't justify with a child depending on her. Yet, the call of the shadows was persistent. For the first year, Felicia wrestled with the pull. Guilt gnawed at her as she left her daughter in the care of her mother or Lorina, the White Rabbit. Lydia, ever the picture of aristocratic nonchalance, turned a blind eye. After all, Felicia was an adult capable of making her own decisions.

But choices, Felicia realized with a dawning maturity, had consequences. The world no longer revolved around her need for excitement; it was a world where a tiny girl needed a steady, dependable mother.

With a resolute sigh, Felicia threw off the covers. She glanced back at the sleeping angel nestled in the bed. A tender smile touched her lips. A little longer, then they'd face the day together.

Felicia emerged from her bedroom, the scent of brewing coffee already twisting in the air. She wasn't surprised to find Lorina Dodson, the White Rabbit, sprawled on the couch in a bunny-themed robe, legs curled up like a feline despite the garment's inspiration. The TV flickered silently, tuned to some early morning news program Lorina wasn't watching.

"Well, good morning, Sleeping Beauty," Felicia drawled, peering into the fridge. "Looks like breakfast duty falls to me again."

Lorina finally tore her gaze away from the muted screen. "Don't get dramatic, Felicia. I just wasn't feeling the chef's touch this morning."

Felicia snorted. "Right, because you ever do the chef's anything." Turning back to the fridge, she scanned the meager contents. Fruit, milk, a carton of eggs, and a forlorn-looking lime. "Pancakes it is, then."

As Felicia whisked batter, the rhythmic sizzle on the griddle a welcome contrast to the silence, she couldn't help but notice a newfound ease in her movements. Cooking, once a chore, had become a quiet pleasure. Maybe it was the satisfaction of creating something nourishing, or perhaps the simple act of nurturing – a concept that felt radically different just a few years ago.

Lorina sauntered into the kitchen, a playful glint in her eyes. "Morning, Chef Momma Cat! Got anything exciting on the menu today?" She teased, wrapping her arms playfully around Felicia's waist.

Felicia swatted her head lightly with a spoon, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Don't interrupt the master at work, apprentice," She retorted.

Lorina rubbed her forehead with a mock pout, sticking her tongue out. "Hey, that hurts! Why you gotta be so rough?"

Felicia chuckled, rolling her eyes. "Someone was practically begging for it."

Lorina huffed playfully and perched herself on a barstool at the counter. The playful banter settled into a comfortable silence as the rhythmic sizzle of batter hitting the griddle filled the air.

"Felicia, spill the beans already! When are you gonna tell me about the baby daddy?" Lorina pressed, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Felicia let out a theatrical groan. "Lorina, for the love of Pete, give it a rest!" Even after all this time, the mention of Peter sent a flicker of something through her. She kept her expression carefully neutral, though.

"Four years, Felicia!" Lorina protested, her voice rising slightly. "Four years you've kept that secret under wraps. It's driving me insane!"

"And with good reason!" Felicia shot back, her voice sharper than she intended. The weight of the secret still felt heavy, a constant reminder of the past she wasn't ready to confront.

Felicia's sigh carried the weight of a memory. Back in England, she'd crossed paths with Lorina who was doing a break from her American exploits. Needing a place to stay amidst her growing pregnancy, Felicia became Lorina's tenant, enjoying the (admittedly rabbit-themed) luxury compared to a cramped motel room.

As her belly swelled into the third trimester, the secret became impossible to ignore. One day, staring at her reflection, a whirlwind of emotions swirled within her.

"Pregnant," She whispered, her hand resting on the undeniable evidence. "Another life growing inside me." A kick from within sent a jolt of wonder through her. "If only Spid-no Peter were here to feel this."

The familiar tug of guilt tightened in her chest. Why hadn't she told Peter? The perfect opportunity had presented itself, yet fear had held her back.

"Talking to yourself, Felicia?" Lorina's voice broke the silence, laced with amusement. "First sign of insanity, wouldn't you say? Though considering our line of work – running around in tight suits and pilfering from the obscenely wealthy – perhaps we were already a few marbles short."

Lorina sashayed into the room, her eyes widening at the sight. "Well, well, well. The Black Cat, expecting? Who's the lucky father?"

Felicia remained silent; her gaze locked on her reflection. Lorina's arm snaked around her shoulders, a playful nudge.

"Come on, spill the beans! Don't leave me hanging."

Frustration bubbled within Felicia. "It's none of your business," She muttered, shrugging Lorina's arm away.

A sly grin replaced Lorina's surprise. "Ah, touched a nerve, have we? Does it matter to you, this… relationship?"

Felicia let out a growl. "This conversation is over."

Lorina's playful facade faltered. "Not until you tell me, Felicia. You know I won't let this go."

Felicia closed her eyes, the weight of the secret pressing down on her. "Fine," She spat. "It's complicated. A relationship with one of the New York City's…superheroes."

Lorina's eyes gleamed with mischief. "Living on the edge, are we? Someone I know? Do share, the suspense is killing me!"

Felicia's lips remained sealed, a defiant glint in her eye.

Lorina sighed theatrically. "Fine, fine, keep your secrets. But one day, you'll crack and tell me everything." With a parting shot, she lingered by the door. "Just one question though, Fe, are you sure you did the right thing, walking away from your baby daddy?"

Felicia blinked, yanked back to the present by Lorina's expectant stare. The strawberry blonde's blue eyes held a knowing glint that chipped away at Felicia's resolve.

Honestly, if someone had told her back then that Peter Parker would be the father, she'd have scoffed. Now? Regret gnawed at her, a constant ache in the pit of her stomach. Four years of silence, a decision replayed a thousand times, each iteration filled with what-ifs.

Lorina clicked her tongue, the sound sharp in the quiet kitchen. "Felicia, this is getting ridiculous. Don't you trust me?"

"It's not about trust, Lorina!" Felicia slammed the spatula down a little too hard. The clatter echoed in the room, momentarily silencing the rhythmic sizzle of pancakes. "I can't say who it is because I know exactly who he is, both with and without the mask! And let's just say, your approval wouldn't be on top of my concerns. That's why I've kept it zipped for so long."

Lorina threw her hands up in surrender. "Okay, okay, sorry! Just trying to be a good friend, that's all."

Felicia's voice remained laced with steel. "You've asked. Every. Single. Day, Lorina! It's getting old."

Lorina winced. "Touchy subject, huh? No need to bite my head off."

Shaking her head, Felicia returned to tending the pancakes. Despite the constant prodding, a grudging respect had grown between them. Over the years, their shared love for Felicity had fostered a bond. Lorina, the infamous White Rabbit, had become an unlikely yet dependable surrogate aunt to Felicia's daughter.

The rhythmic patter of tiny feet echoed down the hallway, culminating in a joyful squeal as Felicity burst into the kitchen. Her bright eyes landed on Lorina, perched on a barstool, who spun around with a grin that could light up the room.

"There's my favorite little munchkin!" Lorina exclaimed, scooping the giggling girl into a warm hug. Felicity, clutching her beloved stuffed rabbit with its long, floppy ears, squealed with delight as Lorina playfully swung her in the air.

"Mama bunny hungry!" Felicity declared, her voice thick with baby talk.

Felicia chuckled, a warm sound that filled the room. "Lorina, make sure she has a bath before breakfast. I want her to clean before pancakes."

"Consider it done," Lorina winked, already bouncing Felicity gently on her hip. "Come on, munchkin, let's get you squeaky clean. You wouldn't want syrup all over you, would you?"

Felicia watched the echo of laughter fade down the hallway, a hollowness settling in her chest that mirrored the emptiness on her plate. The image of Peter, his face alight with joy as he shared a simple breakfast with Felicity, a real father-daughter moment, stabbed at her heart. A cruel fantasy she'd deliberately denied them both.

With a sigh that rattled the silence, Felicia set down the perfectly golden pancakes. Coffee, a familiar comfort, tasted bitter on her tongue. Now, back in the familiar chaos of New York, the question clawed at her: how could she possibly tell Peter about their daughter? He'd missed those first precious moments – the vulnerability of childbirth, the wobbly first steps, the first words that held the promise of a lifetime of communication. A bond, Felicia realized with a jolt, that was fractured before it even began.

Felicia flinched, the memory of Lorina's comforting presence in the hospital room a constant reminder of the space Peter should have occupied. Would he ever forgive her? The uncertainty gnawed at her, a relentless echo of her mistake. Perhaps, if she'd been honest with him, things could have been different. But the past was a stubborn thing, and the consequences of her actions hung heavy in the air, a suffocating weight on her conscience. As the old saying goes, she'd made her bed, and now she had to lie in it. But for how long? The weight of the secret threatened to crush her, and Felicia knew this wasn't a burden she could carry alone.

Felicia clung to one thread of solace: she'd been honest with Felicity. Her daughter knew she had a father, knew her mother was the Black Cat. Yet, the innocent inquiries, laced with a child's yearning, were a daily torment. "Where's Daddy?" The simple question, a tiny fist of longing, slammed into Felicia's chest every time.

But honesty, it seemed, wasn't enough. How do you explain to a child why you kept their other half at arm's length? How do you justify denying them a father, a normal life? Felicia scoffed, a harsh sound that echoed in the empty kitchen. The bitterness of the coffee mirrored the taste of her regret.

The clatter of the mail slot yanked Felicia from her contemplation. With a sigh, she rose and retrieved the day's haul – bills, flyers, and the familiar, tightly rolled Daily Bugle Newspaper.

Lorina's return chimed like a cheerful melody. Felicity, perched on her hip, giggled as they settled at the table. Felicia set about sorting the mail, the mundane task a welcome distraction.

Unfurling the newspaper, she sipped her coffee, her eyes scanning the headlines. "Menace Dawns: Black Suit! Spider-Man Back in Black." Felicia scoffed. The black suit meant mourning or unbridled rage for Peter. Who in his rogue's gallery had pushed him over the edge this time?

A morbid curiosity led her to page five, the Ryker's Island prison riot coverage. A choked gasp escaped her lips, coffee spraying across the table. "No, it can't be!" She whispered; her eyes glued to a photograph.

Lorina, slicing pancakes for Felicity, glanced up at Felicia's ashen face. "What is it?" she asked, concerned lacing her voice.

Felicia's wide eyes darted between the photo and Lorina. "He wouldn't..." The words died in her throat.

Lorina's playful demeanor vanished. "Felicia, you're scaring me. Talk to me!"

The photo mirrored the darkness she'd witnessed firsthand. A wave of nausea washed over Felicia, propelling her back into a memory long buried.

The harsh glare of the fluorescent lights seemed to amplify the tension in his cramped apartment. Felicia paced, the hem of her black catsuit swishing with each agitated step. Peter, clad in the unsettling black symbiote suit, sat hunched over on the couch, a dark scowl etched on his face. The acrid scent of sweat and desperation hung heavy in the air.

"You can't just keep wearing that thing, Peter!" Felicia snapped, her voice laced with a mixture of anger and concern. "It's changing you!"

Peter scoffed, a humorless sound that grated on Felicia's nerves. "Changing me? It's just a suit, Felicia. It helps me focus."

"Focus on what?" Felicia threw her hands up in exasperation. "Being even more brooding and violent than usual? You barely slept last night, and all you've done is scowl and punch holes in the wall! Not to mention you crippled bad guys!"

Peter stood abruptly, his dark eyes flashing with a fury that sent a shiver down Felicia's spine. "Maybe if you weren't so worried about my laundry list of issues, you wouldn't have time to be so…judgmental!"

Felicia bristled. "Judgmental? I'm just trying to help! That thing is amplifying your worst qualities, Peter. It's making you reckless!"

"And who are you to judge my methods, Black Cat?" Peter retorted, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "You who steal for a living?"

Felicia's hand flew up, a stinging slap aimed at Peter's cheek. But before it connected, a flicker of something dark crossed Peter's eyes. He reacted with a speed that surprised even Felicia, his hand shooting out to grab her wrist with an inhuman grip.

A yelp of pain escaped Felicia's lips as a sickening crack echoed in the small space. Tears welled up in her eyes as she stared at her wrist, now bent at an unnatural angle.

Peter's face drained of color; the rage replaced by a look of dawning horror. He released her wrist as if it were burning, his voice trembling. "Felicia… I… I didn't…"

But the damage was done. The memory of Peter's unintentional violence, fueled by the alien symbiote, burned itself into Felicia's mind, a stark reminder of the darkness the suit could unleash. The image of the broken wrist, a symbol of their fractured relationship, would forever be linked to the black suit.

A cold dread settled in Felicia's stomach as she stared at the photo. The weight of the revelation choked her, stealing her appetite. Lorina frowned, noticing the untouched pancake in front of Felicia.

In a blur of motion, Felicia bolted from the table and disappeared into her room. Moments later, she emerged, transformed. A sleek black catsuit hugged her curves, the white accents stark against the morning light.

She knelt before Felicity, unmasked, her voice tight with emotion. "Behave for Aunty Lorina, okay, sweetheart?"

"Yes, mommy," Chirped Felicity, oblivious to the turmoil brewing within her mother.

Felicia kissed the top of her daughter's head, a gesture filled with unspoken apologies. Then, with a determined glint in her eye, she donned her mask.

"I'll be right back," Felicia said, her voice strained.

"Where are you going?" Lorina blurted, watching as Felicia strode towards the balcony and flung open the sliding door.

Felicia didn't answer. Instead, she took a flying leap, disappearing over the railing, leaving Lorina staring after her in confusion. The abandoned breakfast and the open newspaper lay forgotten on the table. Lorina glanced at the photo again. "So, Spider-Man's back in black. Big deal," She muttered, trying to sound nonchalant. But a sliver of unease crept into her voice. Felicia wouldn't be reacting this way for no reason. Lorina sighed, picking up the discarded newspaper. Maybe there was more to the story.

---

Peter's apartment 10:00 am

Bloodshot eyes scanned the endless list, mirroring the exhaustion gnawing at him. Each rejection email, another blow on top of the gaping hole left by MJ's departure. The sterile rows of data entry and customer service positions blurred – none offering a glimmer of escape from the financial tightrope he walked. The harsh reality was bills wouldn't pay themselves with spiderwebs.

A sigh, heavy with despair, rumbled in Peter's chest. He leaned back in his chair, the stale scent of old takeout clinging to the air, a constant reminder of his neglected hunger. His stomach growled in agreement. A glance at the cupboards revealed rows of empty plates, mocking his predicament. Even cereal was a luxury he couldn't afford right now. The weight of mounting bills felt like a physical presence in the cramped apartment.

He ran a hand through his already messy hair, the sharp tug echoing the ache in his chest. 'You know for a guy who's supposed to be heartbroken, you sure are taking your breakup with the redhead well,' Venom's voice slithered into his mind, a dark counterpoint to the lively chatter filtering through the window. A bitter chuckle, devoid of humor, escaped Peter's lips.

'If I think about MJ, I'm going to cry,' He thought back, desperately pushing away the memory of her tear-streaked face as he left her apartment, the engagement ring clutched uselessly in his hand. The memory was still raw, a constant ache that pulsed with every beat of his heart. He could almost feel the phantom warmth of her embrace, a stark contrast to the cold isolation that surrounded him now.

Peter winced. Venom's voice, usually a welcome distraction, now grated on his nerves. 'Why can't you just get over it?' It prodded; its voice laced with a subtle hint of annoyance. 'It's been what? 48 hours or so?'

'You don't know what heartbreak does to a man,' Peter countered silently, jaw clenching in frustration. 'It feels like someone ripped your heart out and stomped on it. Every man who's ever been heartbroken experiences something… unique. This is mine.' A shadow of anger flickered across Peter's face; a flicker quickly extinguished by a wave of resignation. 'She wants out of being Mrs. Spider-Man, then who am I to hold her back? If her modeling career is more important to her than a relationship with me, who am I to deny her that normalcy?'

'48 hours though,' Peter mused, a sliver of doubt creeping into his thoughts. Maybe Venom had a point. But time seemed to lose all meaning when your world had been caught in the crosshairs of heartbreak and the suffocating weight of responsibility.

His stomach growled again, a more insistent plea this time. "Food…I need food." He rummaged through the mini fridge, a monument to his neglected self-care. An apple, his only companion, stared back at him. Perhaps it was time for a break. Two hours hunched over the computer had yielded nothing but frustration. Maybe a patrol would clear his head. After all, saving the city never failed to make him feel a little better, even if for a short while.

Peter devoured the apple in three, hurried bites. Doubt gnawed at him, a battle between responsibility and exhaustion. But the city thrummed with its usual symphony of sirens and shouts, a constant call to action. With a resigned sigh, he willed the black suit to envelop him, the familiar sensation grounding him momentarily.

He launched himself out the window, a dark blur disappearing into the pre-dawn sky.

Moments later, a figure clad in black materialized on the fire escape, slipping through the window with practiced ease. "Peter?" Felicia called out; her voice laced with urgency.

The apartment was still untouched. A wave of disappointment washed over her. She glanced around, her eyes falling on Peter's unmade bed and the rumpled clothes on the chair. It was as she remembered. "Pete?" She called again, a sliver of hope clinging to her voice.

Felicia's search led her to a dusty trunk tucked away in the corner. Inside, a treasure trove of Peter's past: old web-shooter designs, his trusty spider-tracer, and a roll of worn duct tape. A pang of nostalgia hit her as she ran her fingers over the faded red and blue fabric of his classic suit. Memories, bittersweet and tangled, flooded her mind.

Then, she goes to the closet and at the back of the closet, she saw it. The black suit. Not the alien monstrosity that haunted her memories, but the sleek, custom-made version she'd created for him. Relief warred with a fresh wave of worry.

"Peter, please don't tell me..." Felicia gritted her teeth, the playful Black Cat facade crumbling. "I'm going to kill you."

A sudden rapping on the door shattered the silence. "Peter, it's me, Ursula. Are you there?"

Felicia's heart hammered in her chest. She didn't know this Ursula, or what connection she might have to Peter. But the weight of the black suit discovery hung heavy, a constant reminder of the danger Peter might be in. Could Felicia trust her?

Felicia strained to hear any response from this visitor. Moments ticked by, filled with a tense silence. Finally, the sound of footsteps retreating down the hallway reached her ears.

"Why is it whenever I visit, you're never home?" Ursula's voice, laced with a hint of playful annoyance, faded into the distance.

Relief washed over Felicia. She emerged from the closet; the black suit clutched in her hand. She let out a shaky breath. She moved with the silent grace of a predator towards the main door. A quick peek through the peephole confirmed Ursula's departure. Relief washed over her, but a new wrinkle marred her moment of satisfaction.

Reaching for the knob, Felicia attempted to lock the door behind her. A harsh scrape and a sickening click met her touch. The lock wouldn't budge. Frustration flared, hot and unwelcome.

"Seriously, Peter?" She muttered under her breath. "This is beyond ridiculous," She growled, her voice hardening. "Looks like it's time I gave you a little upgrade in lifestyle, Parker. Financially and maybe..." She trailed off, a mischievous glint in her eyes, "...security-wise."

Her eyes caught a black box nestled beside the police scanner. Curiosity piqued; she opened it. Her breath hitched – Mary Jane's engagement ring.

Another revelation dawned on her, a cold dread settling in her stomach. "Oh no... if Mary Jane broke up then...Peter's heartbroken and with an alien suit?" A pang of guilt twisted in her gut. Peter, heartbroken and wielding an alien lifeform on him? It was a terrifying image.

She shuddered. That was a recipe for disaster.

The police scanner crackled with urgency, each second ticking by like a bomb counting down. "Attention all units! Bank robbery in progress at 127 7th Ave. Suspects are believed to be armed and dangerous!"

"Welp," Black Cat mused, a wry smile twisting her lips. "At least I know where Peter is going to be next."

With a determined glint in her eyes, she dashed out the window, leaping over the balcony. Her grappling hook shot out, propelling her from building to building.

She prayed that she wasn't too late, and Peter wasn't consumed by that alien suit. "At least a good old-fashioned bank heist is a welcome distraction from existential dread," She snorted. "Here's hoping I get there before Peter decides to redecorate the city with alien goo."

---

127 7th Ave, 10:30 AM

Chaos erupted on 7th Ave. Gunshots echoed, shattering the morning calm. People shrieked, scrambling for cover. A female figure, clad in a dominatrix leotard that left little to the imagination, strutted into the pandemonium. Her voice, dripping with theatricality, boomed over the crowd.

"Move it, ya filthy peons! The Menagerie's are here to play! Hippo! Panda-Mania! Make sure those fuzzball cops don't follow our trail!"

A woman in a panda-themed leotard, the black and white fabric straining at the seams, hoisted a taxicab with surprising ease. Beside her stood a literal, anthropomorphic hippopotamus, equally unimpressed by the weight of a car. He grunted in agreement.

"You got it, Gypsy!" Panda-Mania chirped, her voice grating.

"This'll be a blast!" the hippo rumbled, his voice a low, guttural chuckle. "Screamin' civilians in the morning, just what I needed!"

A bewildered newcomer, a baby strapped to his chest, stared at the scene in utter confusion. "Hey, uh, excuse me," he stammered, "just got to the city, and I gotta ask... is this some kinda April Fool's joke gone wrong?"

The seasoned New Yorkers were too busy scrambling for safety to offer an explanation. "Get outta my way, ya freak!" one yelled, shoving past the newcomer.

"Great, more costumed wackos to deal with?" another grumbled. "Just what this city needs!"

The crowd surged forward, a wave of panicked humanity. The newcomer stumbled, caught in the stampede. "Hey, watch it!" he cried, desperately trying to shield his baby.

Suddenly, a web line shot out, zipping through the air. It snagged the man just before he fell, pulling him and his child to safety. Relief washed over his face as Spider-Man gently set him down on a nearby stoop.

"Hold on, folks," Spider-Man quipped, his voice strained but playful. "No squished babies on my watch!"

The crowd paused, momentarily stunned. They watched as Spider-Man turned his attention to the outlandish trio. The woman in the dominatrix outfit – Gypsy Moth, or Sybil Dvorak as her momma probably called her – gritted her teeth. A mutant with the ability to manipulate soft materials, she was clearly frustrated.

"Not you, again!" She snarled.

Spider-Man slumped his shoulders, his mask crinkling with mock despair. "Aw, come on," he drawled, "The Rejects? Really?"

Sybil snarled. Spider-Man had dismantled the Menagerie one by one over the years – White Rabbit, their flamboyant leader; Panda-Mania, Hippo the surprisingly nimble giant; and now, her. Fury burned in her eyes as she stretched out a hand, aiming to shred his costume with her mutant ability. A strangled cry escaping her lips as her mutant power fizzled against the infuriating material. Years of honing her abilities, reduced to uselessness against this self-repairing monstrosity. "What the...?" She sputtered; her voice laced with disbelief.

Spider-Man, ever the wise cracker, took advantage of her distraction. "Textile malfunction?" he quipped before webbing her up like a trussed turkey.

"You'll pay for this Spider-MMMPH!" Sybil made her venomous threats, cut short by a mouthful of sticky silk.

"Ugh, would you shut your trap?" Spider-Man said, unimpressed. "If a dollar grew on every villain who threatened to make me pay, I'd be richer than Stark."

Suddenly, his spider-sense tingled, a prickling sensation at the back of his neck. Before he could react, Panda-Mania, a blur of black and white fury, launched herself at him. Her fist connected with the ground, sending a crater spider webbing to the concrete.

"Whoa!" Spider-Man exclaimed, dodging the blow then followed up with a web-kick that sent her sprawling.

No time to rest. A flying car, careening wildly, filled his vision. With a burst of his extraordinary strength, he snagged it mid-air, depositing its terrified occupants on a nearby street just as Hippo, a walking tank of a man, charged at him with a bellow.

Spider-Man easily scooped him up by the scruff of his tank top. Hippo flailed his arms in a comical display of defiance.

"Hey, that's not fair!" Hippo roared, his voice surprisingly high-pitched for his size. "You're way outta my weight league!"

"Didn't get the memo, big guy?" Spider-Man retorted; his voice tight. "New and improved, remember?"

He tossed Hippo to the floor with a mighty thud. A surge of anger, dark and unfamiliar, bubbled within Peter. The car. It was the answer. With a heave, he lifted it over his head.

"What are you doing?" Hippo whimpered; his bravado replaced by pure terror.

A dark edge crept into Spider-Man's voice. "Grounding you permanently, that's what!"

The crowd recoiled. This brutal stranger wasn't the hero they knew. Protests erupted: "Spider-Man! You wouldn't!"

"Spidey you are a hero not a killer!"

"Stop it web-head!"

Peter, however, was lost in the throes of his dark emotions. It echoed a similar scene, a forgotten memory flashing before his eyes – him, staring down at a terrified Rhino, a metal bar gate held high. Was he becoming the monster he fought? Or was this the symbiote making him act like this even though he had told the blasted parasite to tone down the aggression?

A flashback jolted him back to reality. The fear in Rhino's eyes mirrored Hippo's. The memory of a plea for mercy, a defining moment in his journey as Spider-Man.

Reacting on instinct, Peter hurled the car away, webbing Hippo securely to the ground before he could regain his senses. The noxious odor of fear and... something else confirmed a humiliating truth – Hippo had fainted himself.

Spider-Man breathed heavily, his body trembling. "Good grief, what the heck was I doing?"

Panda-Mania, just regaining her bearings, was met with a swift kick to the back of the head courtesy of Black Cat. The thief landed beside Spider-Man with a flourish, a playful glint in her blue eyes that stole his breath away, even after four years. Black Cat flipped him a wink, her voice a sultry melody.

"Hey there, lover boy," She purred. "Miss me?"

Black Cat's arrival was a double-edged sword. Relief washed over Peter, momentarily erasing the dark tendrils of rage. But relief quickly curdled into familiar exasperation. What was she doing here?

"Cat..." He stammered, caught off guard.

Across from them, Panda-Mania cracked her knuckles, a menacing glint in her eyes. "Well, well, if it isn't the legendary Black Cat. Finally get to tangle with you, pussy cat!" She growled.

Black Cat smirked, extending a hand adorned with razor-sharp diamond claws. "Careful, darling," She purred. "This kitty has claws, too, and gets dangerous when cornered."

Spider-Man stepped in front of Black Cat, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "Nice to see you too, Cat, but this one's mine!"

Black Cat snorted, amusement dancing in her eyes. "Don't be hogging up all the glory, Spider. Besides, darling, this kitty gets bored easily. A little feline teamwork sounds purrfectly delightful."

"I don't care how many I face! I'm going to smash both your faces!" Panda-Mania roared, charging towards them.

Thinking fast, Spider-Man scooped Black Cat into his arms, leaping over the charging Panda-Mania. With a shared look, they landed back-to-back, a formidable duo ready for a double team takedown.

The air crackled with chaotic energy as Spider-Man and Black Cat, the unlikely duo reunited, faced off against the enraged Panda-Mania. Peter, his movements sharper than ever thanks to the symbiote's influence, launched himself at the villain first. He shot a web-line, sticking to Panda-Mania's massive shoulder, and yanked with surprising force, momentarily throwing her off balance.

Capitalizing on the opening, Black Cat, a whirlwind of black and white, blurred into action. Her agility, honed from years of thievery and escapes, was on full display. With a graceful spin, she landed a kick on Panda-Mania's opposite knee, the impact echoing through the street. The giant woman stumbled, a surprised grunt escaping her lips.

But Panda-Mania wasn't easily fazed. With a roar, she lashed out with a fist aimed at Spider-Man. He ducked just in time, the wind from the blow ruffling his head. Using the momentum of the dodge, he spun around Panda-Mania, a web-line wrapping around her midsection. With a grunt, he yanked back, pulling her off balance once more.

This time, Black Cat was ready. As Panda-Mania teetered, Black Cat sprang. Her movements were a mesmerizing dance of lethality and grace. She landed a series of lightning-fast blows, punches and kicks that connected with exposed areas of Panda-Mania's costume. The giant woman roared in pain, flailing her arms wildly, trying to swat away the annoying fly buzzing around her.

But the teamwork was flawless. Spider-Man, his movements enhanced by the symbiote, mirrored Black Cat's strikes. He shot another web-line, this time binding Panda-Mania's wrists together. The combined assault, swift and strategic, was slowly wearing down the larger opponent.

Frustration contorted Panda-Mania's face. She swung a wild haymaker, catching a nearby streetlamp and bending it in half with a sickening screech of metal. Debris rained down, forcing Spider-Man and Black Cat to take cover behind a dented police car.

"This is getting us nowhere," Spider-Man grunted, the exertion evident in his voice. The symbiote's power surged, a dark energy thrumming beneath his skin, urging him to use more force. He pushed it down, focusing on the fight, on the strategy.

Black Cat, ever the pragmatist, chimed in, her voice breathless but laced with amusement. "We need to take her down a peg, darling. Literally." She winked at him, a silent plan forming in her bright blue eyes.

With a shared nod, they emerged from behind the car. Spider-Man shot another web-line, this time aiming for a nearby fire escape a few stories up. Black Cat, with a mischievous glint in her eyes, took a running leap, propelling herself with surprising strength. She snagged the web-line mid-air, using her momentum to swing past Panda-Mania.

The sight of the agile Black Cat sailing through the air seemed to momentarily distract the villain. Taking advantage of the diversion, Spider-Man launched himself at Panda-Mania's back. He landed a web-enhanced kick that sent her staggering forward. Before she could recover, the web-line Black Cat clung to went taut, yanking her upwards with surprising speed.

Panda-Mania, caught off guard and thrown completely off balance, yelped in surprise. She dangled upside down, a few feet off the ground, her bulky form comically out of place. Spider-Man, not wasting a moment, ran a web-line from his hand to a nearby building, creating a makeshift zip-line.

With a final smirk at the bewildered Panda-Mania, Black Cat launched herself down the web-line, landing gracefully a safe distance away. Spider-Man followed suit, the combined weight briefly straining the web before it held. They regrouped, catching their breath, a formidable team despite their differences.

Panda-Mania, dangling upside down and thoroughly defeated, sputtered in outrage. "You... you cheaters! I'll get you both for this!"

Black Cat let out a peal of laughter, the sound tinkling through the tense air. "Oh, honey, you already lost. Besides, where's the fun in a fair fight?"

Panda-Mania sputtered through a mouthful of webbing, her eyes burning with a fiery promise of revenge. As Spider-Man and Black Cat disappeared into the urban jungle with her dangling above the crowd, the defeated villain knew this wasn't over.

With a silent web-swing, Spider-Man deposited Felicia on a rooftop. The awkwardness, thick and heavy, filled the space between them. Felicia shifted, unsure of what to say. Neither was Peter.

Suddenly, he lunged forward, pulling her into a tight hug. The familiar warmth of Felicia in his arms triggered a surge of emotions: longing, regret, and a flicker of something hopeful. Felicia, ever perceptive, hugged him back tightly.

"I missed you, Peter," she whispered, her voice laced with a hint of vulnerability.

"I missed you too, Licia," he murmured, his voice thick with unspoken emotions. "There's a lot I need to tell you..." The words trailed off, the weight of his recent experiences settling heavily on him, "But first...how's life?" He asked.

They broke apart slightly, a comfortable silence settling between them. Felicia offered a small, wistful smile. "It's going...a lot has happened since I was away."

"Do you want to grab a slice or something?" Spider-Man blurted, suddenly eager to break the tension.

"Spider, it's 11:00 am in the morning," Cat pointed out, a hint of amusement in her voice.

"So, breakfast then?" He asked, a hopeful smile tugging at his lips.

"Are you already asking me out?" Black Cat teased, a playful glint in her eyes.

"More like a friendly reunion," Peter stammered, his cheeks flushing slightly. The truth was the thought of getting back with Felicia was a no-go even if she was teasing him. After MJ and what had happened in her apartment, and that little talk they had, he needed time to heal. But maybe, just maybe, there was room for friendship, for a chance to rebuild the connection they once shared.

A comfortable silence settled between them, a silent acknowledgment of the past and the uncertain path ahead. As the city sprawled before them, bathed in the morning sunlight, they knew their journey was far from over.

Sometime later, Felicia and Peter sat on the edge of a rooftop, bathed in the warm glow of the morning sun. Peter handed Felicia a bagel, toasted and adorned with cream cheese and strawberry jelly, accompanied by a carton of apple juice. He opted for a cold chocolate milk and a plain bagel with butter.

They ate in comfortable silence for a while. Felicia's gaze drifted towards Peter, the morning light illuminating the telltale shape of his mouth revealed by the symbiote suit. Her suspicions were confirmed. It was the alien monstrosity again.

Just then, Spider-Man broke the silence. "Darn it!" he exclaimed.

"What?" Black Cat asked, her voice laced with concern.

"I forgot to ask those Menagerie rejects whatever happened to White Rabbit," Spider-Man said, frustration tinging his voice. "She was the ringleader, after all."

Felicia took a measured bite of her bagel, her eyes gleaming with a knowing glint. "Ex-ringleader, Peter."

"What do you mean?" Peter asked, his surprise evident. How could Felicia possibly know this? A flicker of suspicion crossed his gaze, but it was quickly masked by genuine curiosity.

"Let's just say she's traded her bunny ears for a different kind of life now," Felicia said, her voice a low murmur. "A much more... productive one, shall we say?"

Peter leaned forward; his interest piqued. "Productive? You know what she's up to?"

Felicia offered a sly smile, a playful glint in her eyes. "Perhaps, Tiger. But some secrets are best kept buried, wouldn't you agree?"

"Color me surprised then," Peter said, taking a sip of his chocolate milk. A heavy silence settled between them. "And get this," he continued, trying to lighten the mood, "Doc Ock apparently went straight as well."

"That's news to me," She said, "But I don't buy it for a second."

"Neither do I," Peter admitted, a forced smile on his lips. He felt a bead of sweat roll down his temple. How much longer could he keep this charade up?

"Well, isn't that great?" Felicia said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Life, so full of surprises. And speaking of surprises, is that the black suit that I made you you love?"

Peter's heart hammered in his chest. "Yup," He lied through his teeth, watching her cautiously.

"Funny..." Felicia drawled, a dangerous glint flickering in her blue eyes. Her smile, once playful, now held a sharp edge. "Because I stopped by your apartment and looked around. And I saw that the suit I made you is hanging on a clothes rack."

Peter's breath hitched. "Well, it is," He stammered. "I just made a second one. And you know you're not supposed to be snooping around my apartment."

"Hm-hmm," Felicia hummed, her voice low and dangerous. "And the wanting to make your enemies into road paste?"

Peter's mind raced. "A spur of the moment?" He suggested, his voice thin.

Felicia's eyebrow shot up. With a swift movement, she scratched Peter's shoulder, drawing a bead of blood.

"Ow! What the heck, Felicia?!" Peter yelped, rubbing his injured shoulder.

Felicia watched with narrowed eyes as the symbiote instantly repaired his wound. "Okay, Peter," She said, her voice clipped and cold. "Stop lying to me. I know it's the monstrosity you had years ago. You know what that thing does to you."

Peter hung his head, a defeated sigh escaping his lips. "I agree," He mumbled. "But the reason I have it back is because I don't want it running to anyone else. And I'm the only one who can stop it. Besides, it's complicated right now."

The suit pulsed beneath his touch, a dark echo of his own turmoil. "Complicated?" Felicia echoed; her voice laced with a dangerous calm. "Tell me about it, Tiger."

So, Peter explained how he came across the black alien suit once again, how it had materialized during the dead of night while he was asleep. He described laying down the law the next day, insisting on being in control.

Venom, a seething mass of black tendrils and sharp teeth manifested on the back of Peter's head, scoffing mentally at the explanation. However, it understood the need for obedience if it wished to stay. This, Venom reasoned, could be a beneficial partnership, not a one-sided control.

"I see you went to Central Park to lay down the law," Felicia said, her voice laced with concern. "No joyrides, no controlling you, no brains, but chocolate and complete obedience. Peter, you know how dangerous Venom is!"

"Did you forget that he almost killed me as well?" Felicia added, her voice rising with each word.

Felicia recoiled, a primal fear clawing at her throat. The sight of the alien entity manifesting on Peter's head, its glistening black form and mocking voice, sent chills down her spine.

Peter, his expression grim, met Felicia's gaze. "Felicia, what would you have me do? Let Venom infect others or find another host? I hate this as much as anyone, but what choice do I have? Let the creature die?"

"Honestly?" Felicia said, her voice trembling slightly. "Yes. It's too dangerous, Peter. There has to be another way."

Venom, its voice dripping with sarcasm, materialized fully beside Peter. "I'll have you know I resent that remark! I have the right to live just like anyone else does! I want a second chance, not total domination!"

Felicia jumped back, hissing in fear. "So, it is you."

"Who were you expecting, Jerry Lewis?" Venom retorted; its voice laced with a cruel humor.

"Behave," Peter said sharply, the strain evident in his voice. He was caught between a rock and a hard place. Felicia's fear was valid, the symbiote's chaotic influence undeniable. But could he truly condemn the creature to death? There had to be a better solution, a way to control the symbiote while keeping Felicia safe.

Venom's head retreated with a disgruntled hiss, leaving a heavy silence in its wake. Peter's shoulders slumped, the weight of the conversation pressing down on him. Felicia, her earlier anger replaced by a quiet sadness, sat beside him, resting her head on his shoulder.

"So, how have you been these past four years?" Peter asked, his voice gentle.

Felicia's hand instinctively went to her stomach, a phantom ache reminding her of the truth she held close. A wave of guilt washed over her, threatening to drown the carefully constructed lie. "I've been well," she finally said, her voice calm despite the turmoil within. "Got to travel a bit."

"Oh? Where to?" Peter asked, a flicker of curiosity sparking in his eyes.

"England," Felicia said. "Met up with an old acquaintance, Lorina Dodson."

"That's where you were?" Peter said, a hint of disappointment in his voice. "Why didn't you call or write?"

Felicia bit her lip, mentally berating herself for being a coward. She had missed the perfect opportunity to tell him, to reveal the existence of Felicity Kathrine Hardy Parker, their daughter. But it was way too soon. Peter was still grappling with the symbiote, his own emotional state a precarious tightrope walk.

"I was busy," She mumbled, the lie a bitter taste on her tongue.

Four years was a long time. 'Busy' could mean a lot of things, the symbiote echoed in the back of his mind, its voice dripping with suspicion. Peter felt a flicker of unease cross his features, even though the mask hid his face.

"Though I have to ask, Licia," He said, his voice tinged with a curious vulnerability, "Did you truly miss me, or did you miss the Spider?"

A pang of guilt ran through Felicia's bones. Yup, she'd screwed up big time with this one. "Both, actually," She replied, meeting his gaze with a mix of honesty and regret.

Peter's optics widened, a flicker of surprise flitting across the lenses. "Really?"

"Time has a way of showing that the world doesn't revolve around oneself," Felicia said, her voice laced with quiet wisdom.

Felicia's words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken truths. Peter's gaze softened, a silent acknowledgment of the time that had passed and the lives they had lived apart. As he touched Felicia's hand, she closed it around his, a single squeeze holding a multitude of unspoken emotions.

"I'm glad you're back," Peter said, his voice sincere. "I missed my friend."

Felicia smirked, a playful glint in her eyes. "Are you sure that's all you missed, Tiger? We both know we had our share of fun back then, wild, and passionate. Are you sure that you didn't miss my booty? " Felicia's smirk softened slightly, a hint of vulnerability flickering in her blue eyes. The memories, both exhilarating and bittersweet, resonated with her too.

Peter snorted; a flicker of amusement tinged with sadness in his voice. "Don't remind me," He mumbled, the memory of their stolen moments bringing a pang of longing. "Aunt May would kill me if she found out I—"

"Went all the way?" Felicia finished his sentence, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

"Don't tempt fate," Peter said, a hint of amusement tinged with sadness in his voice.

Felicia chuckled. "Speaking of May, how is she?"

"She's well," Peter replied. "And she knows."

Felicia's eyebrow shot up in surprise. "Well, I told you to tell her and that you over complicate things. Did she keel over and die when you told her, as you always predicted?"

Peter opened his mouth to retort, then shut it tight. The memory of Aunt May's calm acceptance echoed in his mind. "You are Spider-Man... What do you think would've happened, Peter? Do you honestly believe that I would keel over and die?" He pointed a finger at her, then lowered it with a sigh. "Touche," He admitted. "And no, she didn't. She confronted me in my apartment, and we had a long talk about it."

Felicia shook her head, a hint of fondness in her eyes. "You really underestimate your aunt, Peter. She's not a fragile elderly woman that can't handle the truth."

A comfortable silence settled between them.

"So, I need to ask," Peter began, "What were you doing at my apartment?"

"Well," Felicia began, "I was at my penthouse, ready to have breakfast with Lorina. But a photo from the Daily Bugle caught my eye. When I saw that black suit again, I didn't think anything of it. But then, on page five, there was a different story about Ryker's Island and another picture of you with some black, whip-like webbing."

Felicia's voice held a hint of accusation, but Peter could also hear a thread of concern woven into it. "Thus," she continued, "I headed over to your apartment. To confirm my suspicion and here we are."

"I see..." Peter muttered, his face a mask covering his features a bit of anger bubbling up, "You know your not supposed to go their without me being there!"

Felicia held his gaze, her chin held high. "I needed to confirm!" She said, her voice firm. "I don't want you to lose yourself, especially with that thing back."

Peter clicked his tongue, palming his face in exasperation. "You know what? I don't even know what to say at this point."

"I don't know what else you want me to say," Felicia said defensively. "I just had to confirm with my own eyes that the suit wasn't back. But it seems I have been mistaken. You need to get rid of it. Oh, and I also found Mary Jane's engagement ring."

Peter, for all his anger, deflated. The mention of the ring, all the money he saved up, felt hollow now.

"Who broke it off? You or her?" Felicia asked gently.

"Honestly, I don't want to talk about it," Peter sighed. "I just can't win with love. Not with you or MJ, I have two extremes of the spectrum, one who loves the man and the other who loves the mask. Neither are willing to meet me in the middle."

Felicia cupped his cheek, her touch surprisingly tender. "You don't know me that well, Peter," She said softly. "I've done a lot of reflecting. Perhaps one day you and I can be more, but I won't push. You're hurting, and you need to heal."

Peter offered a wry smile. "Who are you? And what did you do to the real Felicia Hardy?"

Felicia rolled her eyes playfully. She leaned over and kissed his cheek, a lingering touch that spoke volumes of unspoken affection and a hint of regret. "I gotta go," She said, her voice a low murmur. "It's been...fun catching up. Hopefully, the future holds more for us." A silent beat passed between them, charged with unspoken emotions, before Felicia took a final look at Peter and dived off the rooftop, disappearing into the city.

Peter watched her disappear into the cityscape; a pang of longing tugged at his heart. He couldn't deny the spark, the way she challenged and understood him in a way no one else could. But the memories of their volatile past, the fiery passion laced with heartbreak, were a cautionary tale. Was he ready to risk that again? He watched her swing away, a wave of emotions washing over him. Felicia's words, her touch, the glimpse of a changed woman – it all stirred something deep within him. But the tangled web of his love life, the responsibility of the symbiote, and the looming issue of the Sinister Six and Eddie Brock– all demanded his immediate attention.

Heaving a sigh, Peter rose to his feet and dusted himself off. "Now I gotta go home and take it easy," He muttered.

A voice slithered into his mind, sharp and unsettling. 'Did you notice how her hand instinctively went to her stomach?' Venom asked.

Peter's cheeks burned like tomatoes. "No, but what about it?" he shot back, his voice laced with irritation.

'I think she may be hiding something from you,' Venom persisted, his voice dripping with a knowing amusement.

"What makes you say that?" Peter asked, swinging through the city.

'I can see your thoughts, Parker,' Venom replied smugly. 'Those memories of your old flame resurfaced. I must say, you two were going at it like rabbits. I'm surprised you didn't knock her up yet.'

Peter's face contorted in annoyance. "Yeah, those were the days," he mumbled, the memory tinged with a bittersweet ache. "But I'm not going to talk about my love life with a symbiote." His gaze hardened, hoping to silence the intrusive alien entity. The symbiote, however, remained unfazed, its comment hanging in the air, a seed of doubt planted in Peter's already troubled mind. Was Felicia hiding something? And if so, what did it mean for their future, whatever that may be?

Peter then gritted his teeth, frustration radiating from him like heat waves. "By the way," He said, his voice taut, "What was that with the Menagerie?"

Venom's voice pulsed with dark amusement. 'Whatever do you mean, Parker?' it drawled sarcastically. 'Just a little pest control, that's all.'

"Didn't I tell you to tone down the aggression?" Spidey said through gritted teeth. "You nearly had me flatten Hippo with an SUV! The city already has mixed opinions about me, I don't need more bad press!"

'I am a predator, Parker!' Venom retorted; its voice laced with defiance. 'I need to be free!'

"No, what you need to do is follow my every step, not try to kill someone because they're breaking the law!" Peter countered. "Remember what I said? There are good people in this world, and there are bad ones too. The kind who deserve a punch in the face, the Menagerie are the ones you want to stop, not kill!"

'I crave the thrill of the hunt!' Venom whined, its voice dropping to a petulant snarl. 'This city is crawling with vermin, just begging to be eradicated.'

"You wanted a chance to prove to me that you're not just the monster I perceive you to be," Spider-Man said, his voice hardening with resolve. "Prove it, Venom. Prove me wrong."

Venom went silent, a heavy stillness settling between them. The alien entity had spoken, but its compliance felt hollow. Peter knew this was just the beginning of their complex and potentially volatile partnership.

Finally, it spoke, its voice sullen in his mind. 'Very well, Parker. But for how long can I contain these urges? This city is a feast for my senses, and you expect me to play nice with everyone?'

Peter sighed. He knew this wouldn't be easy. The symbiote's hunger for violence was a constant threat, and maintaining control would be an ongoing battle.

---

Soho MJ Apartment 12:00 pm

Mary Jane zipped up her suitcase, a heavy sigh escaping her lips. Leaving Peter wasn't easy. They had a long, complicated history, a tether that kept pulling her back in, despite her best efforts. They'd known each other since high school, watched each other grow, shared goals and dreams. Yet, their paths kept diverging. There was always someone else first – Gwen, Felicia, Angelica. Maybe she was just number four, the fallback girl. The redhead snorted to herself. She never understood what Peter saw in Liz Allen anyway, that shallow blonde who couldn't decide between him and Flash Thompson.

She glanced at the picture frame on her dresser, a bittersweet smile gracing her lips. There they all were, graduating from Midtown High – Peter and Gwen, the academic power couple, Harry with his easy charm, and her, the aspiring model. She'd kept in touch with both Peter and Gwen after graduation, even though Harry had vanished into the world. Looking at Gwen's picture, a pang of sorrow tugged at her heart. It wasn't just the loss of Gwen to the Green Goblin; it was the life they could have had, the happiness Gwen deserved. Peter and Gwen, with their shared love for science, seemed to fit so well together. Yet, there was a part of her that understood Peter's connection to her too.

MJ shook her head, the memory pulling her back to the present. Peter's constant run-ins with supervillains, the near-death experiences – that was the real heartbreaker. The fight with Morlun, the life-force drainer, had been the final straw. She loved Peter, but the fear, the constant worry – it was a suffocating weight on her chest. She couldn't handle the uncertainty, the knowledge that every night could be his last. But a part of her admired his selflessness, his unwavering commitment to protecting the city, even if it meant putting himself in harm's way.

As Mary Jane closed the suitcase, a single tear rolled down her cheek. Was this goodbye? Or was it just another pause in their complicated dance? Only time would tell.

A voice sounded behind her, sending a shiver down Mary Jane's spine. "So, your career was more important than your love for Peter."

Mary Jane knew that voice very well. She spun around, her emerald eyes flashing. "Felicia," She said, her voice steely.

Felicia leaned nonchalantly against the door frame, a neutral expression on her face. "Mary Jane," She responded in kind.

"What are you doing here?" MJ spat; her voice laced with suspicion, "How did you get in?"

"Through the window you left it unlocked plus I just wanted to see for myself that this isn't a joke," Felicia said, her voice smooth as silk. "You really broke up with him."

Mary Jane's jaw clenched, the anger simmering beneath the surface. "What's it to you, Felicia?" She snapped. "We ended things, that's all there is to it."

Felicia raised an eyebrow, a flicker of something unreadable crossing her features. "Is it, Mary Jane? Or is there more to the story than you're letting on? There is no way you above all people would let go of Peter that easily."

Mary Jane's breath hitched. She couldn't explain the constant fear, the gnawing worry that came with loving a superhero. It was a burden she couldn't share, not even with Felicia. "There is nothing more going on, Felicia," she finally managed, her voice tight. "We just... weren't working."

Felicia held her gaze for a long, unsettling moment. "I see," She finally said, her voice laced with something that could have been sympathy or perhaps a hint of smug satisfaction. "Well, Mary Jane, can't say that I blame you for walking away. It takes a certain type of strength to stomach all the horrors Spider-Man may bring."

Mary Jane retorted, her voice laced with a hint of vulnerability, "Are you here to gloat? Rub it in my face?"

Felicia's face remained neutral. "No," She said simply. "If it was the old me, yes. I would have rubbed it in your face. But I'm not going to do that."

Mary Jane looked at her in surprise. "Are you sure you're that same Felicia Hardy I met six years ago?"

Felicia dislodged herself from the door post. "People change, MJ," She said, her voice surprisingly gentle. "I changed." A hint of a smile played on her lips. "Take care of yourself. And who knows, maybe someday our paths will cross again." With that, Felicia turned and sauntered out of her room and apartment, leaving Mary Jane alone with her swirling emotions and a sense of unease that lingered long after the Black Cat had disappeared.

Mary Jane watched her leave, a sense of unease settling in her stomach. Felicia's words hung in the air, a cryptic message that hinted at a past Mary Jane didn't fully understand. 'People change, MJ,' Felicia had said. But had Felicia truly changed, or was this just another act in her ever-evolving game?

Mary Jane puzzled and puzzled some more. Felicia – she hadn't seen her in four years, so what was her game? Felicia is a confusing person as a fish out of water. Just then, a knock at the door startled her out of her thoughts.

She opened the door to find Aunt May standing there, relief washed over Mary Jane. A familiar face was exactly what she needed right now, "Aunt May! Please, come in."

"Thank you, dear." Aunt May stepped inside, her eyes taking in the apartment. "It's lovely, Mary Jane. You've decorated beautifully."

They exchanged greetings, a kiss on the cheek, and Mary Jane ushered Aunt May to the armchair. "Can I get you anything? Tea?"

"Some tea would be lovely, dear," May replied, settling comfortably.

As Mary Jane disappeared into the kitchen, Aunt May's gaze swept the room again. It was a far cry from the cramped apartment Peter had, but it reflected Mary Jane's personality perfectly – vibrant, stylish, and full of life.

"So, Aunt May, what brings you to my humble home?" MJ called out from the kitchen, the kettle whistling merrily.

"Oh, not much, dear," May replied settling into the armchair. "Just wanted to catch you before you left for Europe."

"How'd you find out about that?" MJ asked from the kitchen.

"Well, your Aunt Anna told me, and so did Peter." Aunt May replied.

Though May couldn't see it, MJ winced. 'Of course, he'd tell his Aunt May,' She thought. 'No doubt she knows I broke off the engagement.'

MJ came into the room with the teapot and cup, then poured the tea, her hands trembling slightly. "He did, huh?" She managed, forcing a smile.

Aunt May's eyes softened. She blew and took a sip, then set her cup down and reached out, taking Mary Jane's hand gently in hers. "Yes, and he told me his secret even I am still wrestling with the fact that my nephew is Spider-Man. Can you believe it?"

A jolt of surprise shot through Mary Jane. "He told you?" She blurted, nearly spilling the tea.

May gave a small nod. "He did."

"Wow, I didn't think he had it in him to tell you," Mary Jane admitted. "He was so worried about you finding out."

"Well, he didn't tell me directly," May chuckled. "I found out because of his mask. I was cleaning out his old room and I found it lying on the ground."

MJ bit her lip, torn between amusement and a flicker of unease. Did Peter tell Aunt May about their relationship troubles?

MJ took a hesitant sip of her tea, the scalding liquid barely registering against the sudden heat that rose in her cheeks. As if on cue, Aunt May's question sliced through the tense silence, "So, how is your relationship with Peter? I see you don't have the engagement ring anymore."

The words struck Mary Jane like a physical blow. The delicate cup trembled in her hand, and a choked gasp escaped her lips.

"Easy there, dear! Are you alright?" She exclaimed; her voice laced with worry.

Mary Jane sputtered, tears welling up in her eyes as she tried to regain her composure. Grabbing a napkin, she dabbed at the mess she'd created on her blouse and the tablecloth.

"Oh, Aunt May, I am so sorry!" She stammered; her voice hoarse. "That question just...caught me off guard."

Aunt May chuckled softly, her concern giving way to a knowing smile. "Of course, dear. You shouldn't have taken a sip just before I..." she trailed off, her eyes flickering to the empty space on Mary Jane's ring finger.

The playful glint in Aunt May's eyes confirmed Mary Jane's suspicions. Her secret was out. A blush crept up her neck, warming her cheeks. This was exactly what she hadn't wanted to deal with right now.

"Well," Mary Jane finally managed, trying to inject a light tone into her voice. "Let's just say...things are a bit complicated with Peter right now."

"Complicated, huh?" Aunt May raised an eyebrow, amusement dancing in her eyes. "Care to elaborate? Or is this a 'girl talk' situation where tea and auntie are all you need?"

Mary Jane took a deep breath, the dam holding back her emotions threatening to burst. "It's just... complicated, Aunt May. We care about each other, but it's never simple. The life he leads..." Her voice trailed off, the weight of unspoken worries hanging heavy in the air.

Aunt May squeezed her hand reassuringly. "You don't have to explain, dear. You've always been strong, Mary Jane, but that doesn't mean you have to carry everything on your own shoulders. Sometimes, even the strongest people need a break."

A wave of emotion washed over Mary Jane – a mixture of sadness, regret, and a flicker of something she couldn't quite define. Maybe it was relief, or maybe a sliver of hope that their paths might cross again someday. Looking at Aunt May's kind eyes, she knew she could finally let down her guard, if only for a little while.

Tears welled up in her eyes. "I didn't want to hurt him," She choked out, her voice thick with emotion. "I just… I can't take it anymore. There's so much I can handle, but Peter being Spider- Man, it's just… overwhelming."

---

Union Square Peter Apartment 12:15 pm

Slipping into his apartment, Peter peeled off his suit with practiced ease. The day's events were tiring, but a warm smile played on his lips. Seeing Felicia again, that mischievous glint in her eye, brought an unexpected sense of joy. But first things first - a relaxing shower was calling his name.

He grabbed a towel before heading for the hallway bathroom morphing his suit in civilian attire. Suddenly, a knock on the door attracted his attention, he went to answer, expecting to find an empty hallway.

Instead, there stood Ursula, his pain in the neck landlord's daughter. A plate of cookies was clutched in her hand, and a shy smile played on her lips.

"Hey, Ursula," Peter greeted, surprised. "What brings you by?"

"Oh, hey Peter," She replied, her voice flustered. "I, uh, baked these cookies and thought you might like some. Your place always smells so... plain."

Peter chuckled. "Thanks, that's really nice of you. Come on in, I was just about to take a shower."

Ursula stepped inside, awkwardly looking around the small apartment. "Sure, no problem. I won't stay long." She placed the plate of cookies on the counter, unable to meet Peter's gaze.

"Did you enjoy the movie the other night?" Peter asked, trying to make conversation.

Ursula looked up, surprised. "Oh, yeah! That was... fun." A blush crept up her cheeks as she recalled their shared laughter.

"Those were some amazing cookies," Peter added, taking a bite. "You're a very good baker, Ursula."

The kiss landed on his cheek, soft and unexpected. "Thanks, Pete," Ursula murmured, her voice a husky whisper. "My offer still stands, you know. Need some company..." The sentence trailed off as she pushed out her chest in a playful, suggestive way.

Peter coughed, a strangled sound that sent a blush racing up his own neck. He wasn't blind to Ursula's charms. There was a fire in her eyes, a boldness that sparked a flicker of interest. But the sting of MJ's recent break-up was still fresh. No way was he ready to jump back into anything serious.

"Hey, thanks for looking' out for me," He said, voice gentle but firm. "Really appreciate it, Ursula. But I got to be honest, I'm not in the right headspace for, uh..." He fumbled for words.

"Romance?" Ursula offered, a sly grin playing on her lips.

"Yeah, something like that," Peter conceded. He nudged her gently towards the door. "Why don't you head home and catch some shuteye? I'll deal with the rent situation with your pops later."

A flicker of disappointment clouded Ursula's features. "Fine, fine," she sighed dramatically.

"I'll see you later." He closed the door behind her, leaning against it with a sigh. His heart hammered in his chest, a confusing mix of relief and turmoil. Felicia back in town, Ursula's unexpected kiss – the day had taken a bizarre turn. He needed some time to sort it all out, some solitude.

"Right," He muttered, pushing himself off the door. "Shower, sleep, maybe pizza. Yeah, that sounds like a plan."

'That girl needs to relax, I'm not into her like that. Maybe a shower will cool me down,' Peter thought, 'MJ's barely out the door, and here I am getting flustered by Ursula's advances.'

'She's practically throwing herself at you!' A scoffing voice echoed in his mind. It was Venom. 'And you reject her?'

Peter sighed mentally. 'I'm not blind, okay? Ursula's cute, but I'm not getting involved with her. One her father's the worst, and second there's the whole Spider-Man thing I can't explain to her. She deserves better than someone waiting for the next supervillain attack.'

'That didn't stop you with Gwen, Felicia, Mary Jane, or even that Angelica Jones chick,' Venom retorted with a sardonic edge.

Peter winced. Venom had a point, but he pushed the symbiote's voice away. No. He wouldn't go down that path again than keeping secrets in the dark about his double life. Ursula deserved better, and so did he. He had responsibilities – to the city, to May, to himself – to be a good person. Even if it meant sacrificing a little personal happiness for now. Until he could truly move on from MJ, relationships were off the table, no matter how tempting.

After his shower and a change of clothes, Peter returned to his room, the exhaustion of the day finally catching up to him. He slumped onto the bed, pulling out his wallet. A meager amount of cash stared back at him – barely enough for a decent meal. The sting of his dwindling funds was a familiar ache. The Bugle paycheck had barely covered his overdue rent, and a significant chunk still loomed over him.

Just as he was about to close his eyes, a prickling sensation erupted across his skin. It wasn't the familiar tingle of his Spider-Sense, a warning honed by years of fighting crime. This was something primal, a deep, resonating pull unlike anything he'd ever experienced. Venom, usually a constant presence in his mind, seemed just as bewildered.

The sensation wasn't a threat, not exactly. It felt more like... a beacon. A powerful, almost magnetic pull that urged him in a specific direction. A primal urge, almost like a... mating call?

Peter bolted upright, heart pounding. "What the..." He muttered, his voice barely a whisper. "I've never felt such a strong pull before."

A low rumble echoed in his mind; Venom's voice laced with curiosity. 'Do you want to investigate?' The symbiote asked, a hint of anticipation in its tone.

Peter hesitated. The unknown always held an element of danger, but this pull... it felt almost irresistible. He glanced at the window, the city lights twinkling below. Maybe a little distraction was exactly what he needed to take his mind off his troubles. With a deep breath, he reached for his mask. "Let's see where this leads," He said, a determined glint in his eyes.

After some time with web swinging the call lead him to Ezekiel old tower. The metallic tang of stale air stung Peter's nostrils as he navigated the labyrinthine vents of Ezekiel's abandoned tower. Dust motes danced in the dim light, illuminating cobwebs and the skeletal remains of forgotten projects. An unsettling silence hung heavy, broken only by the rasp of his web-slingers against the metal. Despite the urgency of the pull, Peter instinctively paused, listening for any sign of life. Why was the tower deserted? Where were the usual hum of activity, the whirring of machinery?

He emerged from the ventilation shaft into a dimly lit control room, the air thick with neglect. A single monitor flickered to life, revealing Ezekiel's digitized face.

"Hello, Peter..." The voice emanated from the screen, a holographic echo of the man himself.

Peter froze, heart hammering in his chest. "What the...?"

The digital Ezekiel continued; his voice laced with a solemnity that sent shivers down Peter's spine. "Don't be alarmed, this is an automated message. By now, my sensors have detected you're alone. But what's truly improbable is that you survived Morlun's attack... and I haven't. If this is the case, then there's something you should know..."

Spider-Man cautiously approached the screen, his eyes glued to Ezekiel's digital visage. "Alright, Ezekiel," he rasped, a mix of shock and morbid curiosity tightening his voice. "I'm listening."

Ezekiel's digital form flickered for a moment, then continued. "There is another like you. A spider. And there's a reason I've kept this from you. You see, Morlun is not your typical villain. He and his kind... they are interdimensional beings who hunt and consume those with spider-powers throughout the multiverse. I vowed to protect Cindy Moon, the Spider-Bride, from becoming a potential target."

The video flickered, Ezekiel's digitized face contorting into static. "They are known as the Inheritors," his voice crackled, barely audible over the growing distortion. "Their mission is to consume all spider-totems and prevent the emergence of a prophesied..." The screen went dark, plunging the control room into an eerie silence.

A primal growl erupted from deep within Peter, a mix of frustration and defiance. He slammed his fist against the console. "Oh, come on!" Peter yelled, throwing his hands up in the air. "Why is it that whenever something important is about to be revealed, technology decides to take a vacation?" A wave of frustration washed over him. This was exactly what he didn't need. He was already juggling a crazy landlord's daughter with a crush on him, a looming rent crisis, an ex who just waltzed back into town on top of his ex-fiancée, the ever-present threat of the Sinister Six, and the ever-so-charming company of Eddie Brock. Now he had to add interdimensional beings like hunters to his ever-growing list of problems. Great. Just great.

A sardonic chuckle echoed in his mind. 'Well, Parker,' Venom's voice dripped with amusement, 'Looks like things just got a whole lot more interesting.'

Peter winced. Venom's amusement only amplified his own frustration. But a single, defiant thought cut through the jumble of emotions. He'd beaten Morlun, hadn't he? Surely, that meant something.

"Yeah," He muttered, more to himself than Venom. "I beat Morlun. Injected myself with more radiation and all that. That's gotta count for something, right?"

Spider-Man lingered for a moment, the name Cindy Moon echoing in his mind. "Spider-Bride, huh? What does that even mean?"

A tremor of uncertainty echoed through the control room as a voice, barely a whisper, pierced the silence. "Hello? Is someone out there?"

Peter whipped around, his spider-sense tingling faintly. Across the room, a blast door loomed, a metallic keypad blinking beside it like a malevolent eye. A knot of apprehension tightened in his stomach. This wasn't part of the plan.

"Hey," he called out cautiously, his voice barely louder than a murmur. "By any chance, are you Cindy Moon?"

A beat of tense silence stretched before a hesitant reply came through the door. "Yeah? And who is this?"

Relief washed over him, a wave cresting and crashing as quickly as it came. "It's Spider-Man. I'm here about what happened with Ezekiel."

"Spider-Man, huh?" Her voice held a hint of disbelief, quickly tinged with another emotion. "Peter Parker? As in, the amazing Spider-Man?"

Peter froze. How did she know his name? "Okay, how did you...?"

A muffled laugh, laced with nervousness, filtered through the blast door. "Would you believe me if I said Ezekiel wouldn't shut up about you?"

His eyes widened. Ezekiel, the man who'd kept Cindy's identity a secret from him, had apparently shared it freely. This whole situation was spiraling out of control. Peter stared at the keypad, his mind racing. Did Ezekiel know everything about him from the beginning? Had he revealed more to Cindy than just his name?

"Can you open the door?" He asked, his voice laced with a mixture of curiosity and unease, the weight of the unknown pressing down on him. "There's a lot we need to talk about."

A long pause followed, filled with the hum of the building's ancient ventilation system. Then, a response that sent chills down his spine.

"I don't think that would be a good idea," Cindy's voice came, edged with a primal fear. "If I open this door then Morlun will come!"

Peter's heart hammered against his ribs. "I already beat him," He blurted, the words tumbling out before he could stop them.

A scoffing sound came from behind the door. "You're lying. You must be lying!"

"Whether you believe me or not is up to you," Peter said, his voice firm despite the unease gnawing at him. "But if you won't come out, then I'm coming in."

A brittle laugh, devoid of humor, echoed through the door. "Ha, good luck, Spider-Man. Ezekiel and I are the only ones who know the passcode."

Peter's eyebrow furrowed. Playing it coy, huh? He'd show her. "Oh, I have my ways," he muttered, his voice laced with a hint of determination.

Cindy's voice, previously laced with disbelief, now held a tremor of genuine fear. "What are you doing?" She asked, the question barely a whisper.

Ignoring her, Peter began a methodical scan of the room. The faint hum of the building's machinery seemed to amplify with each passing second, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. He crouched beside a dusty computer terminal, his eyes scanning the keypad for any telltale signs of wear, any clue to the most frequently used digits. With a practiced flick of his wrist, he bypassed the security protocols, his fingers dancing across a makeshift keyboard he'd jury-rigged from salvaged components.

A low whirring sound emanated from the keypad as the makeshift decoder whirred to life. Time seemed to stretch, each tick of the second hand an eternity. The tension in the room was thick enough to cut with a knife.

Cindy's alarm grew with each insistent beep of the makeshift decoder. "Stop! Stop it, Peter!" she shrieked, her voice cracking with a mixture of fear and desperation. "If you do this..."

But it was too late. With a hiss of escaping air, the blast door lurched open, revealing Spider-Man standing on the other side. Relief flooded Peter's face, momentarily washing away the tension.

But Cindy's reaction was far from what he expected. She didn't reach out in greeting or even show surprise. Instead, she flipped her hair back, revealing her face for the first time. Peter's breath hitched in his throat. Standing before him was a beautiful Asian woman with an athletic build that commanded attention.

However, the moment of appreciation was shattered as confusion clouded Cindy's features. "Wasn't Spider-Man's costume supposed to be red and blue, not black and white?" she muttered, her voice laced with disbelief. Her gaze flickered over his form, taking in his toned physique.

Then, in a flash of unexpected fury, her entire demeanor shifted. She let out a guttural growl in a language Peter didn't understand, the words sharp and laced with anger. "멍청한 바보야! 방금 무슨 짓을 했는지 아세요!?" (You stupid fool! Do you know what you've just done!?) Before Peter could react, she lunged at him, a blur of rage and confusion.

---

LXD: Wow, that's all I can say this story is wow...blowing up in reviews and favs/subscription. I thank each and everyone who is subscribing, hopefully this time around with the help from B4TM4N-WH0-L4U6H5 I can bring you a more coherent Spider-Man story than originally intended. Again my thanks to everyone, as always comment, review, favorite or subscribe and I'll see you in the next chapter.

Responses to the reviewer(s)

I am vegito: Thank you so much

Zhorvak: I mean I'm going to reflect their 616 counterparts but not dabble to much, but try to adapt it from both comics and media. I like the notion that Gwen likes Peter in the mask and out of it that comes from the Amazing Spider-Man movies. Regarding MJ though I mean I'm trying to go for an angle that is how much can one person take before they say enough is enough, I get what you are saying but let's face it when it too comic book love interests there is so much one can take and that can't be a healthy relationship between partners where one is a superhero and the other is just a civilian. Maybe it's just my personal bias that I don't like MJ as the love interest considering what I know about Spider-Man and his many lovers or love interest that I just can't see them together. I mean OMD is a factor in it and quite frankly I'm still upset that the writers made MJ stay quiet about her pregnancy to Peter because if she would have told him then OMD would have never happened and I would have been alright whatever. In my honest opinion there are a lot of better girls suited for Peter than just MJ his always soulmate; I mean come on Ms. Marvel (missed opportunity), Black Cat (missed opportunity), Silk (missed opportunity), Mockingbird (missed opportunity), Silver Sable (missed opportunity) and the list goes on...it's like the Marvel writers don't care and they still don't care. But what are you going to do.

TW: Thanks and unfortunately he wasn't working as I hoped but we'll see what happens this time around again I am uncertain what I am going to do.

PrudishSet: That is a fair assessment and I don't know why that didn't hit me as Crossover until now or why didn't I do that. Now the spider people well in the original we had official Teresa through blood transfusion, Peter, and Cindy. MJ powers were from the symbiote as were Eddie, Ashley the life foundation symbiotes as I was following the Web of Shadows game were the symbiote invasion was happening.

nataku2709: Only time will tell and thank you

Nothingspecial43: Please see the PM for our discussion

The Alpha Gray Wolf: Cindy grew on me to be honest. I liked her but what I didn't like about her character is that she was made to replace Peter and that to me is a no go. And that she suddenly good at everything if you locked behind a bunker for 10 years and training that doesn't equal beating bad guys when you are released from a bunker.

RobbieTheRabbit: I think that what it was it was very mixed bag for OC Superman or people were dreading that OC would steal the spotlight from Spidey. If I do put an Oc I will never allow that OC to take the spotlight away from the main character. Honestly though I didn't notice: "Shocker; a walking electrical storm; and Electro, a human living capacitator." until you pointed it out but I'll leave it as a joke. XD

Lightblade1121: Thanks hope you stick around

NOnormal99: I wasn't expecting it either but here we are. Now I just need to focus on the mythos of Spider-Man so stayed tuned for more