Disclaimer: Spider-man and other Marvel-related content belong to Disney Marvel Entertainment. Any other content that includes OC's or plot belongs to me. Enjoy the extra-long chapter 12
Arc 1: Back in Black
Chapter 12: The Final USB
The afternoon sauntered like it owned the place, the sun doing its best to impersonate a spotlight. Cindy lounged like a cat on Peter's chest, blissfully snoozing until something squishy stirred her awake. With a curious hand, the Asian woman reached up and squeezed it, unleashing a soft, unexpected moan that didn't belong to Peter.
Her head shot up like a jack-in-the-box, her eyes wide with surprise. There, snuggled beside her, was Felicia, her face serene in sleep. Felicia rested peacefully, her arm draped over Cindy's waist, pulling her closer as if trying not to let the warmth escape.
Cindy jumped off the bed, her sudden movement jostling Felicia. The former cat burglar's eyes opened for a moment before shutting close snuggling close to the pillow. Cindy landed on the ground with a light thud, quickly springing up and looking around for Peter, who was still sound asleep in a chair. She didn't want to wake anyone, so she remained silent, her racing heartbeat the only sound in the room.
"Well, that was a bit intimate..." Cindy muttered, her voice barely audible. She took a moment to collect herself, her mind still reeling from the unexpected intrusion.
Cindy still had one of Peter's oversized T-shirts draped over her, making it into a makeshift dress. It was the only thing she had on besides her underwear since they came back at 4:00 in the morning. She took a whiff of herself, grimacing. She smelled like sweat and desperately needed a shower.
She smiled as she turned her eyes to Peter. The poor man looked exhausted. She walked over, leaning in to kiss his forehead. She hoped that besides this unfamiliar attraction, they could be friends, and if something more developed down the road, she'd try to embrace it. Her old life was gone, and starting over with a new friend could be refreshing.
She sniffed, her nose wrinkled. He smelled terrible. She hoped there would be no more bomb threats like the one they had just received. As she stepped away, she glanced back at Peter with a soft smile. A new friendship was blossoming.
Cindy went to the door, her curiosity piqued by seeing a white envelope addressed to Peter. She bent over to pick it up, her fingers tracing the unfamiliar handwriting. Opening the letter, she began to read, her brows furrowing with concern.
"Dear Mr. Parker..."
Her brows widened in surprise as she continued reading, a small gasp escaping her lips. She quickly went over to Peter, shaking him awake. "Peter!" She whispered urgently.
Peter stirred, his eyes fluttering open. "What is it?" He mumbled; his voice thick with sleep.
Cindy placed the letter in front of his face. "You need to see this," She said, her voice filled with urgency.
Peter took the letter, his sleepiness fading as he read. "Dear Mr. Parker," he read aloud, his voice growing louder with each word. "It is with deep regret that I must inform you that due to lack of payment on the rent, you are evicted from your apartment, effective immediately. It would help if you were out by the end of the day; any further delay will result in local authorities' intervention in removing you from the premises.
Sincerely, Fedir Ditkovitch."
He laid his head down to sleep once more. "So, I'm getting evicted," he muttered, his voice barely audible. It took a mere second for reality to sink in. Peter jerked up, his eyes wide with disbelief. "I'M GETTING EVICTED!" he roared, his voice echoing through the apartment.
Felicia, startled by the sudden outburst, sat up in bed, her eyes wide with confusion. "What's with all the noise?" she demanded, her voice groggy.
Cindy quickly jumped onto the ceiling, her movements a blur as Peter rushed out of the chair. Then she landed by Felicia as she whispered, "We've got a problem," her voice barely audible over Peter's frantic banging on the door.
"Mr. Ditkovitch, open the door!" Peter yelled, his voice filled with desperation. We need to talk!"
The door creaked open, revealing Ursula, her face a mask of confusion. "Peter, what's with all the banging?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.
Peter thrust the eviction notice into her hands. "Ursula, your father just evicted me!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.
Ursula's eyes widened in shock. "No! He can't do that!" she exclaimed, her voice rising in panic. "Papa, you have to stop this!"
The man arrived at the door, speaking in what sounded like Russian. Ursula's face flushed with anger. "Papa! How could you! How could you evict Peter from the apartment?!"
Mr. Ditkovitch, however, had none of it. "Ursula, иди на кухню, поговорим позже!" (Ursula, get back into the kitchen, we'll talk later!)
Ursula, still red with anger, responded defiantly, "Нет! Это так несправедливо! Ты не можешь так поступить с бедным Питером!" (No! This is so unfair! You can't do this to poor Peter!)
Trying to understand the conversation, Peter guessed it was Russian based on the accent. After a brief scuffle, Ursula stormed off, slamming the door behind her. He took a deep breath and held up the letter. "What is this? I told you I would get you your money, and now you're kicking me into the streets without warning?"
Mr. Ditkovitch sighed, his attention turning back to Peter. "Parker, let's get one thing straight," he said sternly. "I've given you chances after chances. I've been patient enough with you—no more. Now, I want you gone by the end of the day. Let's not be difficult, or I'll take you to court."
Peter couldn't believe his ears. His landlord was petty enough to take money from anyone, even birthday money.
Still clad in her Black Cat suit, Felicia stepped forward, her voice filled with determination. "I'll cover it," she said, her eyes fixed on Mr. Ditkovitch. "And maybe he'll move out of this apartment."
Mr. Ditkovitch was taken aback. He questioned himself: Where had Peter Parker picked up this dame? If that was his girlfriend, then Ursula stood no chance.
"Felicia!" Peter hissed, trying to stop her.
Felicia pounded his back, silencing his protest. "I've got this," she said in a hush, though her voice was firm.
Mr. Ditkovitch scratched his chin, his eyes narrowing. "Usually, Parker, it's the man who comes to the rescue, not the dame." He paused, a smirk playing on his lips. "But I'm not going to argue. Next time, be the man, not the woman."
Peter's jaw clenched, his fists tightening. Felicia grabbed his arm, her grip firm but gentle. "Peter, calm down," she whispered, her voice soothing. The blond turns to the landlord, "How much does Peter owe in rent?" Felicia asked, "I will consider paying it."
"He owes over $52,800. I want my money by the end of the day," Mr. Ditkovitch said, his voice cold and calculating. "No ifs, no buts." He slammed the door shut, the sound echoing through the apartment.
Peter and Felicia exchanged a glance, the gravity of the situation sinking in.
"You didn't need to do that," Peter said, his voice low and strained. "I could have handled it myself."
Felicia shook her head. "I know, but I couldn't just stand there and watch you get evicted." She paused; her eyes filled with concern. "You're always having financial issues, and it's not even funny. For all your intelligence, I want to know why you can't find yourself a decent job."
Peter sighed, a mixture of frustration and resignation evident in his voice. "It's not that simple," he replied. "Being Spider-Man takes up much time, and it's not the most stable job, especially with photography at the Daily Bugle. Plus, the whole drug test, yeah, one wrong move, and there goes my secret identity."
Felicia rolled her eyes. "You're so stubborn," she said, her voice laced with exasperation. "You need to start thinking about your future, Peter. You can't keep living like this."
Peter nodded; his expression somber. "Tell me something I don't know," he muttered.
Felicia took out her phone and swiped a few times before opening an application. "What's your bank account?" she asked, a mischievous glint in her eye.
"What?" Peter looked at her, his eyebrows raised. "Why?"
Felicia grinned. "Trust me, this will solve all your problems."
After telling her about his bank account, Peter's eyes bugged out of his sockets once they were inside his room, and the door was shut. "Felicia, I can't accept this! This is way too much!"
"You can and you will," she said, sitting on his chair and rubbing her temples. "Consider this my gift to you after so many years of putting up with me and making me see the light."
Cindy sat on the bed, watching the exchange with curiosity and concern. She hugged her knees, her gaze fixed on the two of them.
"Felicia..." Peter stammered, his mind racing. "$100,000 in my bank account? That's...that's a lot."
"I know," Felicia replied, a soft smile on her lips. "But you deserve it. You've been through a lot, and you deserve a break."
Peter was speechless. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Felicia, his friend, his confidante, had just given him a massive sum of money.
"You're too good to me," He finally managed to say.
Felicia shook her head. "I'm just trying to help," She replied. "You need to start thinking about yourself, Peter. You're too noble for your good, and you suffer needlessly. When is enough going to be enough?"
Peter sighed, a mixture of gratitude and resignation swirling within him. Felicia had a point. He needed to start thinking about himself and prioritizing his needs, but it was easier said than done. Sighing again, he went to his bed and plopped down, his hand passing through his hair. Cindy crawled over, sitting next to him and leaning on his shoulder while intertwining their fingers.
Felicia clicked her tongue but knew better than to get angry. She had seen this scene play out before, the budding romance between Peter and Cindy. She took a deep breath, trying to control her rising frustration as she clicked her tongue again, but she knew if she said something, Peter would fling back at her about their secret daughter.
"Shouldn't you be healing instead of being with your rebound girl?" Felicia finally said, her voice laced with sarcasm.
Cindy growled, but Peter held her firmly in place. "Felicia, stop it," He said, his voice stern. "I'm not in the mood for a catfight between the two of you. Call it a truce."
Cindy and Felicia exchanged a long, silent look. Finally, Cindy relented. "Fine," she muttered, her voice firm. "But I'm not happy about it."
"Of course," Felicia replied coolly. "We can play nice."
Peter sighed, relief washing over him. "Thanks," he said, turning back to Felicia. "Now, what I want to know is what happened this morning that made you show up at 5:00 AM and plop hard on me."
Felicia bobbed her head. "Well, as you already know, I've been collecting Maggia's secrets by collecting their USBs. I don't know how or when, but somehow, they caught on to me after I faced Scorpia."
"Who?" Peter asked, his eyebrows raising.
"A knockoff version of Mac Gargan, only female instead of the original," Felicia commented, a hint of amusement in her voice. "Anyway, I left her a bit, let's just say, tied up and a bit humiliated." She chuckled at the last part.
Peter hummed, "That doesn't explain why you were shot at."
Cindy looked at Felicia, who sighed. "I don't know either. I'm good at covering my tracks, but I knew it would be a matter of time before someone ratted me out. And whoever it is that did shoot me, well, I can't say I got a clear view." Felicia stretched, her movements slow and deliberate. "You know, I should be withering in pain, but strangely, I'm not."
Peter says, "That's because I used the symbiote to heal your wounds. You had a few broken ribs, a gunshot wound, and a twisted ankle."
Felicia looked at Peter for a long moment, her eyes wide with surprise. "You used that alien parasite to do what now?"
"I said that I used Apex to mend your wounds," Peter replied, shortening the version.
Felicia was silent for a moment. Then she got up and excused herself, disappearing into Peter's closet and shutting it.
Cindy and Peter exchanged a glance, their curiosity piqued. They heard muffled screaming and disgust coming from the closet.
"Aren't you going to..." Cindy started, her voice filled with concern.
"Nope, let her get it out of her system," Peter replied a hint of amusement in his voice.
They sat in silence, waiting for Felicia to emerge from the closet.
After ten minutes, Felicia emerged, her expression a mix of anger and relief. She went straight to Peter, her finger pointed accusingly at him. "Never. Do. That. Again!" she hissed, her voice low and menacing.
Peter sighed, his eyes filled with a mixture of guilt and determination. "I make no promises, especially since you're the mother of my child," he replied, his voice barely audible.
Felicia flinched, her eyes widening in surprise. "Look...Peter...I..."
Peter got up and silenced her with a gentle touch of her lips. "Felicia, enough," he said, his voice firm but gentle. "I told you it would take a while for me to get over the anger. But that doesn't mean I'm going to let Felicity down."
Peter hugged her tightly, his arms wrapping around her. Felicia calmed herself, her body leaning into Peter's embrace, seeking comfort.
Cindy clenched her jaw, her heart aching with a mix of emotions. She knew Felicia and Peter had a complicated relationship, but she couldn't help but feel jealous.
"We have to save her," Cindy said, her voice filled with determination. "We can't let anything happen to her."
Peter nodded; his eyes filled with a steely resolve. "We won't," he said, his voice a promise.
They were silent momentarily, the weight of the situation settling over them.
"Well, we can't go in broad daylight," Peter finally said, breaking the silence. "We'll have to go at night. In the meantime, we're visiting my aunt's house for a little R&R ."
Felicia nodded, her eyes filled with a mix of determination and exhaustion. "That sounds good," she replied, "and don't forget about saving Lorina as well."
Cindy clung to Peter's arm, her gaze fixed on Felicia. "Who's Lorina?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Don't worry about it for now," Peter responded, his voice filled with concern. "But first, we need to change."
After a quick shower and changing clothes for all three of them, Peter went into his closet to find something for Cindy and Felicia. Luckily, a few articles of clothing from Felicia and Mary Jane were left over from previous visits.
Felicia wore jeans and flip-flops in her pink Hello Kitty shirt, while Cindy wore MJ's red blouse and blue jeans. The only problem was that Cindy was a bit slimmer than Felicia and MJ, who were more robust than her.
Cindy couldn't help but glance at Felicia's ample bust, a wave of self-consciousness washing over her even though her figure was quite commendable. She felt the urge to inquire whether that was her natural size, but she bit her tongue, captivated by Felicia's curves.
After noticing the attention, Felicia rolled her eyes and said, "Yes, they're natural. Can you stop staring?" her voice tinged with irritation.
Peter shook his head, putting away their costumes in his trunk for now. He had to see Aunt May and his supposed sister, Teresa. With everything packed, they were ready to go. As they exited the apartment, the city lights twinkled in the afternoon sun's glow, starkly contrasting with last night's debacle of shutting down the bomb.
Felicia clung to Peter's arm while Cindy clung to his other arm, glaring at Felicia. Peter sighed, knowing this was going to be a long day.
Forest Hills Aunt May residents
News Anchor: "Breaking news! In a stunning turn of events, several city officials have confirmed that Spider-Man is not the villain we once thought him to be. He is a hero, a savior who averted a potential catastrophe. Several prominent politicians, including Senator Jessie Barnes and Representative Jeff Carter, have come forward to confirm that Spider-Man is, in fact, a hero. The web-slinger saves their lives and prevents a catastrophic bomb threat. We turn our attention to Daily Globe reporter Jimmy Walter.
Jimmy Walter: "That's right, folks. Spider-Man has been cleared of all charges. The web-slinging vigilante successfully defused the bomb threat that had gripped our city for days. Several politicians who were held hostage have come forward, praising Spider-Man's bravery and quick thinking. We've gathered reactions from citizens across the city take a look."
Citizen 1: "I can't believe it! Spider-Man is a hero! I always knew it."
Citizen 2: "This is amazing news. I'm so relieved that the bomb threat is over."
Citizen 3: "I still can't believe he saved those politicians. He's a real-life superhero."
Citizen 4: "I don't trust him. He's still a vigilante, causing trouble and breaking the law."
Citizen 5: "I'm glad he's no longer being hunted. He's a hero; we need him to protect our city alongside our police officers, firefighters, and paramedics."
Citizen 6: "I don't care if he saved those politicians. He's still a menace, causing property damage and endangering the public."
Citizen 7: "I'm so grateful to Spider-Man. He's a true hero, a protector of our city."
Citizen 8: "I still think he's a criminal. He needs to be brought to justice."
News Anchor: As the investigation into the bomb threat continues, opinions remain divided on the Web-Slinging vigilante. The city is still abuzz with reactions to this news. While many are relieved and grateful, others remain skeptical. One thing is clear: Spider-Man has once again proven his value as a protector of New York City and is the hero of the hour."
New Anchor: "As well as being cleared of charges, the bounty on Spider-Man's head has been officially retracted. The city mayor is now calling on its citizens to come forward with any information regarding the individuals responsible for the bomb threat."
News Anchor: "We'll continue to follow this developing story. Join us for more updates as they become available."
Aunt May watched the news with a mixture of relief and pride. Her heart swelled with joy as she listened to the citizens praise Spider-Man, her nephew. The news anchor's words were music to her ears: "Spider-Man is a hero...a protector of our city."
She couldn't help but smile, a tear rolling down her cheek. Her nephew, the quiet boy who had grown into a remarkable young man, had saved the city. She was immensely proud of him.
The news continued, the citizens' voices echoing through the living room. Some praised Spider-Man, while others remained skeptical. Aunt May listened intently, her heart aching with the weight of their contrasting opinions.
"He's a hero," she murmured, her voice barely audible. "He's always been a hero."
As the news anchor announced the bounty had been retracted, Aunt May felt relief wash over her. Her nephew was safe, and the nightmare was finally over.
She stood up, her heart filled with gratitude. "I need to call Peter," she said, her voice filled with excitement. She couldn't wait to share this news with her beloved nephew.
Right on cue, there was a knock on the door. Aunt May got up to open it, her heart pounding with anticipation. When she saw Peter standing there, she threw her arms around him in a tight embrace.
"Peter, did you hear the news?" she asked, her voice filled with excitement.
"Ah, no," he replied, his mind still reeling from the day's events.
"Your name as Spider-Man has been cleared," Aunt May said, her eyes sparkling with joy.
"That's wonderful news," Cindy said, relief washing over her.
"I was wondering where you went," Aunt May said, turning to Cindy with a curious expression. "I thought you were in your room."
"Sorry, Peter dragged me into the mess," Cindy said, shrugging sheepishly.
Aunt May glanced at the unfamiliar woman standing behind Peter, a sense of familiarity washing over her. She inadvertently disclosed Peter's secret identity in such a public setting, especially outdoors, feeling foolish. "Peter, I'm so sorry for letting that slip," she said, a hint of embarrassment in her voice.
Peter stepped forward, gesturing to Felicia. "It's alright, Aunt May. She's aware of everything."
"Really?" Aunt May asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Yes, I trust you remember Felicia Hardy," Peter replied with a smile, pushing her to the front.
Aunt May's eyes scanned her face. "Felicia...Hardy..." she murmured, her voice filled with recognition.
Felicia felt small under Aunt May's scrutinizing gaze. She shifted uncomfortably, her nerves on edge. Aunt May studied her momentarily, her eyes lingering on Felicia's platinum hair and piercing blue eyes.
A flicker of recognition passed over Aunt May's face. "I remember you," she said, her voice filled with surprise. "You're that statuesque woman with platinum hair and piercing blue eyes who was at the cemetery."
Felicia's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "That was me," she admitted.
Aunt May smiled warmly. "Good to see you again, Felicia."
Felicia returned the smile, her tension easing slightly. It was a strange feeling, being recognized by someone she had only met briefly. But something about Aunt May's warmth made her feel at ease.
"Peter did mention you," Aunt May said, her eyes filled with curiosity. "He said you disappeared four years ago."
Felicia chuckled, a hint of mischief in her voice. "Yes, I did. I recently popped up again."
Aunt May beckoned them to come inside. "Well, I'm not going to let you stand there," she said, her voice warm and inviting.
Felicia had never been to Peter's childhood home. She had heard stories from him, but nothing could prepare her for seeing it. As they stepped inside, Felicia appreciated the cozy atmosphere.
"It's so...homey," she murmured, eyes scanning the living room.
Aunt May smiled. "It's been Peter's home since he was a child. He has many fond memories here."
Felicia nodded, a sense of warmth spreading through her. She could understand why Peter held this place so dear.
Felicia stepped into the living room, her eyes scanning the familiar surroundings. The room was cozy, with a worn leather couch, a vintage armchair, and a small coffee table adorned with family photos. Sunlight streamed through the large window, casting warm beams across the room.
The walls were adorned with pictures of Peter and his uncle, capturing moments of their lives. One photo showed a young Peter, his face beaming with joy as he sat on Santa's lap. Another showed him playing baseball in the backyard with a man, his face flushed with exertion. And there was a photo of him and Aunt May, their faces close together, sharing a tender moment.
Felicia's heart warmed as she looked at the photos. She could see the love and affection between Peter and his aunt, a bond evident in every aspect of their lives.
As she continued to explore the room, she noticed a bookshelf filled with books on science, history, and literature. She picked up a book at random, its pages yellowed with age. It was a classic novel, a timeless tale of love and loss.
Felicia smiled. This was a place where Peter had grown up, a place filled with memories and love. She felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over her as she took in the familiar surroundings.
Felicia felt a pang of regret, a sharp twinge in her chest. She had taken Peter for granted, her pursuit of thrills and excitement eclipsing the importance of their relationship. She sighed in resignation, the weight of her mistake settling over her.
Peter didn't deserve what she had done to him. She had been so caught up in the thrill of the chase, the dopamine rush of danger, that she had neglected the most important thing in her life. Only now, as she watched him with Cindy, did she realize the depth of her mistake.
She wanted to be with Peter and build a family with him. But her past actions had driven him away and made him doubt her. She had to prove to him that she had changed and was worthy of his love.
Cindy was already a contender for Peter's affections, a rival she had underestimated. But Felicia was determined to win him back. She knew she had to work hard to prove herself. She couldn't repeat the mistakes she had made with Mary Jane.
With a newfound resolve, Felicia stood up, her eyes fixed on Peter. She would fight for him, to prove to him that she was worthy of his love. She would show him that she had changed and was ready to be a part of his life.
Aunt May returned with a plate of cookies, placing them on the table. "Peter, last night you told me something very odd," she said, her eyes filled with curiosity.
Peter's hand passed over the table as he grabbed a cookie. "Hmm...?" he mumbled, munching on a chocolate chip.
"You told me that I was going to be a grandaunt," Aunt May said, her eyes wide with surprise. "What do you mean? Did you get Cindy pregnant?"
Cindy choked on her cookie, her face turning a bright shade of red. Felicia snorted, her amusement evident.
Peter blushed like a tomato, his cheeks turning a deep shade of crimson. He placed the cookie down and wiped his mouth, his eyes darting between Cindy and Felicia. He remained silent for a long while, his gaze fixed on Felicia, who shrank again under intense scrutiny.
Aunt May looked between Peter and Felicia, her confusion growing. "What's going on here?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.
Peter sighed, knowing he had to come clean. "Aunt May, there's something I need to tell you."
Aunt May looked at Peter, her eyes wide with anticipation. "Yes?" she prompted, her voice filled with curiosity.
Peter took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest. Was this the right call to do? Was he going to say he had a daughter with his ex-girlfriend right next to him?
Aunt May leaned forward, her attention undivided. "What is it, dear?" she asked, her voice soft and caring.
Peter hesitated, his mind racing. Finally, he took a deep breath and blurted out, "I have a daughter."
Aunt May's eyes widened in shock. "What?" she exclaimed, her voice filled with disbelief.
Peter nodded, his gaze fixed on his aunt. "It's true. But it's not with Cindy."
Aunt May looked between Felicia and Peter, her eyes filled with confusion and curiosity.
Peter rubbed his head, his mind racing. He told Aunt May everything, just as before, including the complicated relationship with Felicia, the on-and-off streaks, and the occasional booty call.
Aunt May nodded silently, her eyes filled with a mix of emotions. She had already heard most of the parts a few days ago. But what upset the older Parker woman was how Felicia, in her infinite wisdom, had decided to keep her pregnancy a secret during the winter carnival instead of telling Peter. And how Peter had gotten involved with a cat burglar and done the deed behind her back.
Peter omitted that Felicity had been in Hammerhead's hands, not wanting to add to Aunt May's worries. "And thus, four years gone by, and I found out a few days ago myself," Peter said, his voice filled with disappointment.
Felicia fidgeted, her nerves on edge. She stared at Aunt May, her eyes filled with nervousness. Aunt May's expression remained unreadable, her gaze fixed on Felicia.
Aunt May finally spoke, her voice barely audible over the ticking clock. "Peter, Cindy, please leave. I want to talk with Felicia alone."
Peter nodded, his eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and concern. He exchanged a glance with Cindy, who nodded in understanding. With a heavy heart, they left the room, closing the door behind them.
The room was plunged into silence, the only sound of the ticking clock. Aunt May and Felicia sat across each other, their eyes locked in a silent battle. The tension in the room was palpable, thick, and suffocating.
Felicia felt her heart pounding in her chest, her palms sweating. She had known this moment was coming, but it was still terrifying. She had made a colossal mistake, and now she had to face the consequences.
Aunt May's expression remained unreadable, her eyes fixed on Felicia. She was trying to gauge her reaction and understand the depth of her regret. Felicia knew she had to be honest and confess everything.
The minutes ticked by, each one feeling like an eternity. The silence was deafening, a heavy weight hanging over them. Finally, Felicia took a deep breath, her voice trembling slightly. She was ready to face the music.
Aunt May finally broke the silence, her voice barely audible over the ticking clock. "Why?"
Felicia twiddled with her thumbs, her eyes avoiding Aunt May's gaze. "I don't know," she mumbled, her voice filled with shame.
"That is not a reason, Felicia," Aunt May said, her voice firm but gentle.
Felicia sighed, her shoulders slumping. "I was scared," she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "I was scared out of my mind of facing rejection from Peter. Do you know how hard it is to know how your ex-partner will react?" She paused, taking a deep breath. "And to make matters worse, he was with Mary Jane, or at least they were starting to connect back together."
Aunt May nodded, her eyes filled with understanding. "I see," she said, her voice soft.
Felicia continued, her voice filled with emotion. "But Peter was right. He has a right to be angry. I only cared about my freedom, not what I could have built with Peter."
Aunt May sat quietly, her heart heavy with empathy for Felicia. She grasped the fear and confusion that had led to her choices. Yet, that didn't justify the four years of silence regarding the child they shared. What kind of person would intentionally withhold such a truth from a father? Especially someone like Peter, who had once confided in her that he and Felicia were inseparable, like two halves of a whole. It left her pondering what about this woman captivated Peter so profoundly.
Meanwhile, in another room, Peter and Cindy were having a conversation.
"I still can't believe you have a daughter," Cindy said, her voice filled with surprise and disbelief.
Peter gave a slight hum. "It's not like I'm omniscient, Cindy. I didn't know," he replied, his voice laced with a hint of regret.
"I just hope you didn't knock up another girl," Cindy said, her tone playful but tinged with a hint of concern.
"Well, considering we happened to do the romance in the bunker..." Peter trailed off, his eyes scanning Cindy's stomach.
"I'm not ready to be a mother!" Cindy exclaimed, her voice rising slightly. "That's a huge responsibility to raise a child, not that I'm opposed to the idea, but not now."
"Well, as my Uncle Ben would say, With great power, there must come great responsibility," Peter responded, sitting next to Cindy. "It takes two to tango, and we did tango. Besides, I think you would make a great mother."
Cindy blushed a red hue, tucking a hair behind her ear. "Thanks," she mumbled, her voice barely audible.
Peter pulled Cindy close to him, her body leaning into his. They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the warmth of their bodies radiating through their clothes.
"So, what will happen now, Peter, between you and me?" Cindy asked, her voice filled with a mix of hope and uncertainty.
Peter hesitated, his mind racing. "I don't want you to be my rebound girl," He explained, his voice soft. "Despite what happened, I need time to clear my head."
Cindy, having been locked away for so long, yearned for connection. Something was driving her towards Peter, a force she couldn't quite explain. But she remembered Aunt May's words: friendship first, relationship second, as best as she could summarize.
"Take your time, Peter," Cindy said, her voice filled with understanding. "I'll wait."
Peter pulled her closer, holding her tightly. At that moment, a sense of peace washed over him. He knew he had made the right decision. And perhaps, in time, something more could blossom between them. But for now, friendship would suffice.
Cindy asked, curious, "So why didn't you take Felicia to the hospital?"
Peter paused for a moment before answering. "Four reasons: 1. I was too tired, 2. Felicia hates hospitals, 3. She's been there before as the Black Cat; anyone could have recognized her and called the cops. 4. Apex offered to heal her without bonding to her."
Cindy was about to respond when Teresa came in, stumbling upon this little moment and standing awkwardly.
"So, are you done with your job of taking pictures?" Teresa asked, her voice laced with a hint of annoyance. "Can we hang out like normal siblings?"
Peter scolded himself mentally. He'd been so focused on stopping the bomb and Sinister Six that he had forgotten to set up his camera.
"Sure, Tess," Peter replied, his voice filled with guilt and relief. "To be continued?"
Cindy smirked, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Sure," she replied, a playful glint in her eye. They leaned in for a small kiss, Teresa's eyebrows shooting up in surprise. She remembered how Peter had said he wasn't looking for romance. But she decided to say nothing, her curiosity piqued.
Teresa and Peter walked downstairs, Peter calling out, "Aunt May, I'm stepping out for a bit with Teresa."
"Okay, dear, just hurry back, and if you're going to buy lunch, buy lunch," Aunt May responded, her voice warm and inviting.
"Would pizza suffice?" Peter asked, his voice filled with a hint of humor.
"Sure," Aunt May replied, her voice warm and inviting.
Felicia stopped Peter, her hand resting lightly on his arm. She whispered something into his ear, her voice barely audible.
Teresa immediately knew who this woman was but kept quiet, her curiosity piqued. What was the Black Cat doing here?
Once outside, with the door to Aunt May's house closed, they walked silently. Teresa and Peter awkwardly navigated the familiar streets of Forest Hills. Neither adult was sure what to say to the other. The awkwardness was palpable, like a thick, suffocating blanket hanging over them.
The streets were bustling with activity, residents going about their daily routines. Children played in the streets or yard, their laughter echoing. Dogs barked, and birds chirped, creating a symphony of sound that seemed to mock their silence.
Peter tried to break the ice, but his words were halting and awkward. Teresa responded kindly, her voice filled with nervousness and uncertainty.
They walked silently, their awkwardness growing with each passing moment. Teresa glanced at Peter, her eyes filled with curiosity and confusion. She wanted to reach out to him, to connect with him, but something held her back.
Peter felt the same way. He wanted to talk to Teresa and get to know her better, but their awkwardness was like a wall he couldn't break through.
They continued their walk, the silence between them a heavyweight. The city seemed to mock their awkwardness, its vibrant energy starkly contrasting their internal turmoil.
Peter started, "This is..."
"I know it's a bit awkward," Teresa admitted, lightly nudging a rock along the sidewalk with her foot. "I want to get to know you better, but I can't come up with a good way to start a conversation."
Apex's voice echoed in Peter's mind, 'Parker, you're in for a surprise.'
'Not now, Apex,' Peter thought back, a hint of irritation creeping into his mental tone.
'Oh, trust me, you'll want to hear this,' Apex said, its voice teasing.
Peter mentally rolled his eyes, and Apex sensed it. With a sigh, Peter reassured Teresa, who asked if he was alright. Peter shared a mental image of his boss, J. Jonah Jameson, launching a furious rant about missed Spider-Man photo opportunities.
Once he quelled Teresa's curiosity, he went back to Apex. 'Okay, Apex, what's on your mind?' Peter asked, his interest piqued.
Apex let out a gleeful cackle. 'Oh, Parker, you'll be blown away when I tell you. I almost let it slip my mind, but the thing is...'
A few moments of silence stretched out, the tension thickening. Suddenly, Peter burst out, "ARE YOU SERIOUS?!"
Teresa jumped, her eyes wide with concern. "Are you all right?"
Peter mentally scolded himself. "Sorry, just one of those days when the job pressure gets to me," he said, attempting to downplay it.
Teresa observed him closely, her face still showing signs of concern as she hummed softly. Her gaze wandered over the lively streets around them. Just then, her stomach rumbled, prompting her to clutch her midsection. "I'm not familiar with this place," she confessed. "I'm new to the city. Do you know where we can grab a bite to eat?"
"Is that so?" Peter replied, intrigued. "Well, you're in luck because I know this city like the back of my hand."
"Oh really?" Teresa challenged, her eyes sparkling with a hint of competitiveness. "Show me."
"Alright, there's a pizzeria not too far from here. Taking a taxi will take about nine minutes, but walking will take around 25. So, what do you prefer?"
Teresa glanced at her Apple Watch. It was already 1:55 p.m., and it was nearing 2:00 p.m. She looked back at him and said, "Let's grab a cab."
"Sounds like a plan." Peter took out his phone, ordered an Uber, and noted, "It should be here in 10 to 15 minutes." He then inquired, "Teresa, can you share a bit about yourself? I'm sure we can get that DNA test done in time. It would be nice to start with your background to ease the tension." He was already considering visiting Reed from the Fantastic Four after obtaining a hair sample from Teresa.
Teresa folded her arms and tapped her chin. "Well..." she began. "I was adopted by the Madden family when I was a newborn. My dad was a veteran, and my mom was a teacher."
Peter nodded. "So, how was growing up with the Maddens?"
Teresa smiled, though there was a flicker of annoyance there. "My dad was a strict disciplinarian, and my mom was always busy with work. They loved me, but they were both very demanding."
"I can imagine," Peter replied, his voice filled with a laugh. "It must have been hard growing up in a military household. I'm guessing you were a rebel."
Teresa nodded. "It was. But it also taught me discipline and resilience. I learned to appreciate the little things, the simple joys in life. And I learned the importance of family."
Peter listened intently, nodding. "Family is the most precious gift anyone could have. Unfortunately, few people are as fortunate to grow up in a two-parent household, but I was lucky with my Uncle Ben and Aunt May, who raised me like a son."
"Do we have any cousins?" Teresa asked hopefully.
"Unfortunately, Aunt May couldn't have children, given that she was sterile," Peter said, his voice filled with sadness.
"Poor Aunt May," Teresa replied, her eyes filled with sympathy. "I'm sure she would have been ecstatic if she and Uncle Ben would have children."
"So, tell me more about this Madden family," Peter prompted, his curiosity piqued.
Teresa smirked, her eyes filled with mischief. "It's a long story," she replied. "My parents wanted me to follow in my dad's footsteps and join the military, but I wasn't interested. I wanted to explore the world, to see what else was out there."
"So, you ran away?" Peter asked a hint of surprise in his voice.
Teresa nodded. "It was the hardest decision I've ever made. But I knew it was the right one for me. Even if it was short-lived."
"Short-lived?" Peter mused.
Teresa nodded. "Yup, Dad caught me four days later, thanks to his connections, and sent my butt to boot camp."
"And how did you end up here in New York?" Peter asked.
Hammerhead hideout
Switching scenes, we leave the duo behind in Hammerhead's hidden base, still locked in a room that felt more like a prison despite the furniture. Felicity, a bundle of tears, clung to Lorina for dear life. The four-year-old had been crying for hours, even her favorite stuffed rabbit, Mr. Floppy, failing to provide comfort.
Hammerhead, growing increasingly irritated with Felicity's constant crying, threatened the little girl. Still, he had reluctantly allowed Lorina to soothe the brat, who was bound and gagged in a chair by Hammerhead's orders.
Lorina hugged Felicity tightly, consoling her. "It's okay, it's going to be okay, sweety." She sighed heavily, her heart aching for the little girl. Felicity was a sweet soul, always curious, always looking for something new to do. She had been there when Felicia gave birth to her, trying to pick up on any traits resembling her friend. Yet, she found none save the eyes; it wasn't a face she knew. Never in her wildest imagination would she have thought Spider-Man would be the father.
"Ssh..." Lorina cooed, her voice soft and soothing.
"I want my mommy," Felicity whimpered, her tiny voice filled with fear.
"I know, baby girl, I know," Lorina said, rubbing her back gently.
"Hey, would you two shut up in there!" A Hammerhead thug banged on the door, his voice echoing through the room.
Felicity squirmed, her whimpers growing louder as she burrowed deeper into Lorina's neck. "I want daddy too."
"All that crying is driving me insane!" the thug growled.
"Tough luck, bub!" Lorina shot back, her voice filled with defiance. "We've got a frightened child here. It's not like she has a mute button!"
The man growled, his anger evident. "Well, you better shut her up or else!"
Lorina gave a stern "tsk," her eyes narrowing. "Felicity, I know you're scared, but can you go to sleep for Auntie?"
"But I'm not tired," Felicity whimpered, her tiny voice filled with fear.
"It's okay, I'll be right here when you wake up," Lorina said, her voice soft and soothing. She gently laid Felicity on the sofa, the little girl clutching her rabbit tightly.
Felicity continued to whimper, her eyes filled with tears. Lorina stroked her hair, her heart aching for the frightened child. But soon, Felicity's eyes became heavy, and she tired herself out from all the crying. She slept with her head resting on Lorina's lap.
Lorina sighed in relief. This was supposed to be a simple babysitting moment, but it had become a nightmare. Hammerhead, along with a few of his cronies, had gone back to Felicia's penthouse. Lorina was unprepared for the quick abduction of her and Felicity.
Lorina sighed in deep worry for Felicity. "Felicia, you better be back," she whispered, her voice filled with fear and determination. She stroked Felicity's hair as the small girl whimpered even in her sleep. Felicity was going to have nightmares and be traumatized after this. Lorina knew she had to protect her, to keep her safe.
She closed her eyes, her mind racing with thoughts of escape. She had to find a way to get them out of this mess, to return Felicity to her mother. But how? She pondered her next move, just in case Felicity didn't return. Felicia had the opportunity to take her on the USB Maggia hunt, but not trusting Hammerhead, she opted not to do so.
The strawberry-haired woman opened her eyes, a steely resolve in her gaze. She would do whatever it took to protect Felicity and bring her home safely.
Meanwhile, Hammerhead was in his office when a phone call came in. "Yes, what is it?" he growled, his voice thick with irritation.
"Hammerhead!" Boomed a voice that the mafia member instantly recognized.
"Sir!" Hammerhead said, stopping his writing of the books.
"The Sinister Six have failed me in ridding me of Spider-Man," the voice said, his tone laced with disappointment. "Even the Black Cat hasn't done her job properly in delivering good on her promise."
"I told you, sir, that she was going to be a hard one to control," Hammerhead replied, his voice filled with a mixture of defensiveness and resignation.
"Indeed, but as long as you have something she values, she will be in line," the voice said, a hint of menace in his tone.
Hammerhead nodded, his eyes narrowing. He knew the voice well, that of a man who ruled the city with an iron fist and was not afraid to use any means necessary to achieve his goals. "You're right, sir," Hammerhead said, his voice filled with fear and respect. "I'll make sure she does her job."
"Good, now how is Eddie Brock doing?" the man on the other line asked.
"Has the Watson girl in his clutches and doing his own thing," Hammerhead responded.
"Good, as long as he still has her, the reputation of that accursed insect continues to plummet despite the politician I want out of the way saying that he is a hero!" the man said.
"If I may," Hammerhead said, his voice filled with a hint of caution. "Why do you want these specific politicians out of the way?"
"They are a threat to me and my power, the only ones who are true and honest; no amount of gifts or bribes deter them," the man said, his voice cold and calculating. "But in any case, we shall proceed to Plan B, releasing Octavius from prison."
The line went dead, leaving Hammerhead alone with his thoughts. He knew he had to act quickly to rectify the situation before his employer lost his patience. The Black Cat had failed him, but he couldn't afford to fail him, not with the amount of influence and power he had.
Hammerhead thought for a moment. Black Cat had another job to do, getting those USBs as well. It would be a win if she could do that well. Despite the word on the street that she had been ousted, the last Maggia crime family was on high alert.
So, he would wait patiently until then; there was no need to panic or do anything. Felicia was a master thief, so seeing what she would do now would be interesting. He had heard rumors that an assassin was targeting her, but he wasn't sure how true they were.
Hammerhead turned his attention back to his work, a sense of satisfaction washing over him. He had everything under control. The Sinister Six, while a disappointment, was still an asset. And now, with the Black Cat back in his employ, he was even more confident in eliminating Spider-Man. He just hoped that Felicia would do the bug in.
He leaned back in his chair, a smug smile spreading. The future looked bright for Hammerhead. The city was his oyster, and he was ready to feast. However, over the news, a shockwave rippled through the city. The Sinister Six had fallen. Well, at least four of them had. Rhino, Scorpion, Electro, and Shocker were returned to Rykers, but Kraven and Vulture were still out there.
Releasing Otto Octavius was bold, but Hammerhead felt it wasn't the right call. Even with his employer's influence, it would be a month or two before Octavius would be granted a hearing.
Hammerhead frowned, his smug expression fading. The tides were turning against him. He needed to reassess his plan and find a new way to eliminate Spider-Man. But for now, he would focus on the Black Cat, ensuring she completed her mission. The future was uncertain, but Hammerhead was determined to maintain his grip on power.
Hammerhead reclined in his chair, savoring his whiskey as he contemplated his next move. He had Felicia's daughter and the White Rabbit firmly in his grasp. If Felicia truly cherished her daughter's life—and he was sure she did—she would move heaven and earth to protect them. Otherwise, they'd both be swimming with the fishes, as the saying goes.
The thought of Felicia's desperation amused him. He let out a low chuckle, relishing his power over her. A plan was in place, a contingency for when things went sideways. If that failed, he was prepared to unleash chaos.
He would remain patient for now, observing the city as it unfolded like a dark tapestry. The future was a murky abyss, but Hammerhead was confident he could steer it. He was the city's enforcer and would not allow anyone to strip that from him. Yet, his employer loomed larger, a shadowy figure with far-reaching influence, a philanthropist by day and a ruthless crime lord by night. Even Hammerhead had to tread lightly, careful not to provoke the beast.
Aunt May's House
There was a palpable silence at Aunt May's house, the awkwardness thick in the air. Peter sat between Felicia and Cindy, his eyes darting nervously between them. He took a bite of his pizza, unsure what to say.
He had his ex-girlfriend/baby mama on his right and the new girl, Cindy, glaring daggers at Felicia on his left.
Teresa seemed amused by this situation. "Well, Peter, if I didn't know you better, I'd say you quite enjoy being between two gorgeous women," she commented, a playful glint in her eye.
Peter rolled his eyes, trying to keep his cool. "Don't start, please. I'm trying my best not to move to stop them from killing each other."
Cindy and Felicia exchanged a glare, their rivalry simmering beneath the surface.
Aunt May decided to intervene before things got out of hand. She had her fair share of jealous girlfriends, so she knew the signs that a fight would break out or start-up.
"Alright, that's enough out of you two," she said sternly, her voice filled with authority. "I have been gracious enough to allow you to stay here, but if you keep glaring at each other like this, I will have to ask you to leave and take it outside."
Felicia and Cindy cooled a little, their anger simmering beneath the surface. For Peter's sake, they were going to play nice, but it wasn't easy knowing Peter would pick up a potential girlfriend here or head back to an ex-girlfriend with a daughter.
Teresa looked amused but also wondered how on earth Peter had gotten himself tangled with the Black Cat.
Felicia scooted closer to Peter, her eyes filled with determination and mischief. Cindy wisely kept her mouth shut, her frown deepening.
"So, Felicia was it," Teresa started, her voice filled with curiosity. "How did you end up with my brother?"
Felicia sipped her Coke before wiping her mouth with a napkin. "Yes, and you are Teresa Parker, Peter's supposed long-lost younger sister," she replied, her voice laced with amusement. "How I got with Peter, well, it's a long story."
"I'm all ears," Teresa said, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
Felicia hesitated, her mind racing. She knew she had to be careful to protect Peter's secret identity from this Teresa girl. It was one thing to tell Aunt May the whole truth and their complication. It was another thing to reveal her identity to someone she had no idea existed in Peter's life before now.
She had to be very careful. Felicia was silent momentarily, her eyes darting from Peter to Teresa. She decided to make a cover story, one that was technically true. She remembered attending a charity gala hosted by her mother, where Peter had been taking pictures.
"We met at a charity gala," Felicia smiled, her eyes sparkling. " "It was a few years ago. I was there with my mother, and he was covering the event for the Bugle. Well, let's say we hit it off."
Teresa nodded, her curiosity piqued. "And what happened next?" she asked.
Felicia's mischievous grin spread across her face. "I saw him taking pictures and thought he was quite handsome," she admitted, her voice filled with a hint of nostalgia.
"So, you approached him?" Teresa asked, her eyes wide with surprise.
Felicia nodded. "I pulled him aside, and we talked briefly at the bar," she replied. "Then, we danced together on the dance floor, the slow classical music setting the mood."
Peter's eyes widened in surprise. He remembered the dance they shared, the way Felicia had moved in his arms. He had been instantly drawn to her, her charisma and charm captivating him.
"And then?" Teresa prompted, her curiosity piqued.
Felicia shrugged. "And then we went to the balcony for fresh air before exchanging numbers," she replied, a hint of amusement on her face. "Though looking back at it, Peter was always a nervous wreck regarding pretty women."
Peter smirked, remembering how Felicia had taken the initiative. She had always been a woman of action, not afraid to go after what she wanted.
"Yeah, those were the days," Peter said, his voice filled with amusement and nostalgia. "I guess you could say it was love at first dance."
Felicia smiled, her heartwarming at the memory. "Maybe," she replied, her voice soft. "Who knows?"
Teresa listened intently, her eyes filled with curiosity and amusement. She had never heard this side of Peter before, this playful, charming side, which she found intriguing. As they continued to talk, Teresa found herself drawn to Felicia. Her personality was charming. She could see why Peter had fallen for her and couldn't help but feel a pang of envy.
Cindy felt like the fourth wheel out but decided to listen to understand Felicia and Peter's relationship. The three conversed as if they had known each other for years. And as they sat there, surrounded by Aunt May's home warmth, a sense of camaraderie grew among them.
Five o'clock rolled around, and the living room was completely dispersed. The only occupant was Cindy. She paced around the living room, her eyes scanning Aunt May's DVD collection. With a shrug, she decided to go through Aunt May's DVD collection. She spotted a few anime choices amongst a few from Com and maybe a few religious sermons.
She never would have taken Peter as an anime fan. She went over a few selections in the DVD collection that she saw were anime: Restaurant to Another World, Sailor Moon, Ronin Warriors, Pokémon, Zoids: Legacy Zero, G Gundam, Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Rurouni Kenshin. The Pokémon series intrigued her; it was her favorite franchise. So, she opened the shelf, and her jaw dropped. Peter had a vast collection of Pokémon DVDs. She didn't know where to start!
Cindy's eyes sparkled with excitement as she picked up a DVD case. She read the title: Pokémon: The Indigo League. A wave of nostalgia washed over her as she remembered watching the series as a child. She couldn't wait to dive back into the world of Pokémon and relive the adventures of Ash, Pikachu, and their friends.
The last time she saw Ash Ketchum was in the Hoenn Region with his long-time traveling companion Brock, just as he met May and her little brother Max. She didn't see the rest of the series after Ezekiel took her away from her home to save her from the Inheritors.
Cindy's eyes sparkled with excitement as she picked up a Pokémon DVD. She couldn't wait to dive back into the world of Pokémon, with a gleeful look, Cindy popped the DVD into the player and sat on the couch. She was ready to embark on a journey through the world of Pokémon, leaving behind the chaos and uncertainty of her recent past.
With a heart full of nostalgia, Cindy sang along to the familiar theme song. Once the introduction finished, she tucked her knees under her chin, excitement radiating from her as she began the first season of Pokémon.
In the kitchen, Felicia and Peter were chatting away. "Looks like someone's having a good time," Felicia observed, smirking.
"Let her be, Felicia," Peter replied firmly. "She's been cooped up in a bunker for almost ten years."
Felicia's eyes widened with concern as she turned to Peter. "You're kidding, right?"
"Not at all," Peter said, his voice heavy with anger and sympathy. "She's been locked up because of some Inheritors issues."
"Inheritors?" Felicia asked, her curiosity piqued. "What's that?"
"I'm not sure," Peter admitted, his voice filled with uncertainty. "I returned to the Ezekiel building because I felt a pull there via Cindy. I stumbled upon an automated recorded message from Mr. Sims. He explained that Cindy is a Spider-Bride, and no, I don't know what that means. The message briefly explained that Morlun is an interdimensional being hunting and consuming beings with spider powers throughout the multiverse."
Felicia's eyes widened, her jaw-dropping. "Multiverse? You expect me to believe that there is more than one universe?"
Peter sipped his Coke, his eyes fixed on Felicia. "Well, it's like this, Felicia. The multiverse theory suggests there are multiple observable universes, not just one. These universes are typically assumed to have the same physical laws. For example, gravity should work the same way in all parts of a multiverse." The young man gathered some fruit: an apple, an orange, and a kiwi. "Let's take these fruits, for example," he continued. "Let's say this orange is our universe, this apple represents another universe, and this kiwi represents a third."
Felicia listened intently, her mind racing. The multiverse concept was mind-boggling, but she tried to wrap her head around it.
Peter places the orange in front of Felicia on the counter, "This orange is basically where we know everything up to current news. It also represents our choices. I have a daughter with you here, and I welcome back the symbiote. I find Cindy in her bunker, and MJ left me." Peter places the apple next to the orange, "This universe represents a different choice, the same history, the same laws, but now let's say the choices are different; in this universe, I could be married to Gwen Stacey…" Peter paused at the mention of Gwen. His face flickered briefly with sadness at the what-if scenario.
Felicia touched Peter's shoulder. "Pete?"
Peter shakes it off, "Sorry about that. As I said, I may be married to Gwen in this universe, and the Kiwi represents another choice. There is no symbiote, no complicated relationship, and maybe I may have Superman-like powers. There is an infinite possibility with this theory. Do you understand?"
"I get the concept." Felicia says, "But how did she survive that long?"
Peter paused, his mind racing. "Well, I'm sure Mr. Sims was keeping her company," he said, leaving out the part where he had done the deed with Cindy when they first met even though it came up briefly. He didn't want to cause any unnecessary drama, especially with Felicia's tendency to get jealous.
Felicia nodded; her curiosity piqued. She was intrigued by the concept of the multiverse and the endless possibilities it presented.
"It's hard to believe she spent a whole decade in a bunker," Felicia said, feeling for Cindy. "That must have been challenging. I'd go crazy if I were in her situation."
"Well, I'm counting on not having to face any Inheritors," Peter replied, his voice brimming with confidence. "I managed to defeat one, so I should be alright."
"That's true, but villains have a knack for returning," Felicia noted, sipping her water thoughtfully.
"Not this time," Peter insisted, his tone unwavering. "I saw Morlun disintegrate. There's no way he's coming back from that."
Felicia nodded her expression, a mix of respect and concern. She admired Peter's bravery and determination yet couldn't help but feel anxious about the future.
"Speaking of feeling anxious," Felicia remembered, "Peter, didn't you forget about the 24-hour deadline Venom gave you to save Mary Jane?"
Peter's eyes darted, "Kind of after the bomb fiasco, but thanks for the reminder." He chuckled nervously. "I don't know how many hours we have left, but we must rescue Felicity and your friend, the White Rabbit. We need to get that USB, even if it means in broad daylight."
Felicia smirked, "What happened to subtly?"
"Time is something I cannot afford to lose right now," Peter said, his voice filled with determination. "We'll deal with your assassin later. But first, do you have your costume?"
"I left it back at your apartment, remember?" Felicia replied, her voice a mix of annoyance and embarrassment.
Peter nodded, understanding her predicament. "We'll have to swing by their quickly and grab it. Then, we'll head to the Maggia hideout."
Felicia nodded, her eyes filled with a mix of fear and determination. She knew they had much to do, and time was not on their side.
Peter strolled into the living room and inquired, "Cindy, are you joining Felicia and I in rescuing Felicity?"
The Asian woman was wholly captivated by the Pokémon cartoon on the screen. Realizing her distraction, Peter decided it might be best for him and Felicia to tackle this independently. Although Cindy had expressed her willingness to assist, she remained glued to the couch, lost in the animated world.
Peter went upstairs to Aunt May's room, where she was busy blow-drying her hair while wrapped in a bathrobe. Spotting Peter in the reflection of her vanity mirror, she turned and inquired, "What's on your mind, Peter?"
"I'll be back soon," Peter replied, urgently lacing his tone. "I'm heading out to patrol and hopefully bring your grandniece over for a little visit."
Aunt May's face lit up with a warm smile. "That sounds wonderful, dear. I can't wait to meet this daughter of yours." But then her expression shifted to one of seriousness, her eyes narrowing. "But Peter, I have to ask—are there any other surprises I should know about? Because I'm seriously considering a vasectomy for you."
Peter let out a nervous chuckle, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "Let's hope it doesn't come to that," he said, trying to keep the mood light.
"Let's pray it doesn't," Aunt May replied firmly. "You may be an adult now, but you should know better."
"I know," Peter admitted, looking a bit sheepish. "I just hope there aren't any more surprises in store."
Aunt May nodded, her face reflecting both concern and compassion. She knew Peter was giving it his all, but her anxiety for him didn't fade. Sometimes, she wished to see inside her nephew's mind to glimpse his reasoning. "Let's just pray there are no more surprises, Peter," she said, her tone laced with worry.
"Trust me, Aunt May, if anything else comes up, you'll be the first to know," Peter replied confidently.
After a brief farewell to Teresa, during which Peter discreetly collected a hair sample using his symbiote, he set off to meet Felicia. Together, they left Aunt May's house and hopped on the subway, traveling from Forest Hills into the city. They transferred from Lexington Avenue to 51st Street, heading back to Peter's apartment, but not before stopping by the bank.
Felicia was there to collect Mr. Ditkovitch's payment. The landlord was relieved to have his debt settled and appreciated Felicia's reliability. Still, Peter mentally noted that he needed to find a new place to live.
After quickly changing into his Spider-Man suit, he wrapped his arm around Felicia's waist, and they leaped into the late afternoon sky. "I need to make a quick stop at the Baxter Building," Spider-Man announced.
Black Cat's eyes widened in surprise. "The Baxter Building? What could possibly be more important than saving Felicity?" she asked.
"I need to uncover the truth about Teresa being my biological sister," Spider-Man replied, urgency in his tone.
"I hope this detour won't take too long. Who are you meeting that requires the Fantastic Four's attention?" Black Cat inquired, her curiosity growing.
Spider-Man chuckled, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "You'll find out soon enough," he said, feeling a thrill of anticipation as they swung through the city, eager for the answers that awaited him.
42nd Street and Madison Avenue, Manhattan
The Baxter Building, a towering 35-story structure, stood tall amidst the bustling cityscape of Manhattan. Located just a few blocks from the United Nations Headquarters, it was home to the renowned Fantastic Four.
The building's history was as fascinating as its inhabitants. Originally designed as a high-rise industrial site, it had been purchased by the brilliant Reed Richards, the leader of the Fantastic Four. Reed, with the help of his former professor Noah Baxter, had transformed the top five floors into a state-of-the-art headquarters equipped with cutting-edge technology and luxurious amenities.
However, the Fantastic Four's presence had come with its challenges. The building's manager, Mr. Collins, was initially delighted to have such prestigious tenants. But his enthusiasm waned as battles raged on the outer walls and explosions rocked the building. Fearing for their safety, other tenants began to vacate the premises, leaving the Baxter Building with a dwindling number of occupants.
In desperation, Mr. Collins offered all tenants ironclad 99-year leases with significant rent discounts. But the damage was done. The Baxter Building's reputation had suffered, and it struggled to attract new tenants. Despite the challenges, the Fantastic Four remained resilient, their bond as strong as ever. They continued to protect the city, their heroic deeds echoing through the streets of New York.
And as they swung through the city, heading towards the Baxter Building, Spider-Man couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. He was eager to see if Reed Richards could take the DNA sample of himself and Teresa to see if they were related.
Very few people in the superhero community knew that Peter Parker and Spider-Man were one and the same. The Fantastic Four were some of those heroes, given that Spider-Man and Human Torch had teamed up a few times. The list was concise, and Peter wanted to keep it that way.
Felicia held onto Peter, snuggling close to him. Seeing the Baxter Building, she was curious to see how Peter knew the Fantastic Four. She just hoped that it wouldn't have to do with her rejecting Peter Parker if that were the case, just like Peter knew Tony Stark.
When Spider-Man landed next to the window, a beam scanned Peter from head to toe, and he was allowed entry with his guest.
When he stepped inside, Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, greeted him. "Well, well, if it isn't New York's Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, back in black," Johnny said, his voice filled with a playful teasing tone. "Should I be concerned, Peter?"
"Johnny, long time no see," Peter replied, his mask disappearing, revealing his face.
The two shook hands and gave a bro hug, but Johnny noticed Black Cat, his eyes lighting up with interest. He turned on his swagger, trying to flirt with Felicia. Always the smooth talker, he couldn't help but seize the chance to flirt with Black Cat. "What brings such a stunning lady to our little corner of the world?" he inquired, his tone oozing with charm.
Felicia, however, was unfazed. "I appreciate the compliment, but I'm not interested," she responded, her tone steady. She had encountered this kind of attention countless times before. Men flocked to her like moths to a flame, but their sweet words and advances rarely impressed her.
She gracefully turned down Johnny's advances, her gaze locked on Peter. Sensing the rising tension, Peter stepped in between them. "Johnny, let's keep our focus on what really matters," he said, his voice authoritative.
Johnny, slightly surprised, sulked. "Come on, man, be my wingman. Give me a hand here."
Peter shot him a stern look. "Johnny..." He warned, his tone low and severe.
Johnny quickly retreated, realizing Peter wasn't in the mood for his antics. He redirected his attention to Felicia, but she remained disinterested. Felicia leaned closer to Spider-Man, her hand gently resting on his arm. Johnny understood the hint.
As they walked to find Reed, Johnny curiously asked, "So Peter, tell me what brings you here to the F4 headquarters?"
"Well, it's a long story," Peter said, his eyes scanning the bustling lab of the Baxter Building. "I'm here to get some help from Reed."
"Reed, huh? What's up?" Johnny asked, his curiosity piqued.
"It's a bit complicated," Peter said, his voice filled with uncertainty and excitement. "I've recently discovered that I have a younger sister."
Johnny's eyes widened in surprise. "A younger sister? That's awesome, dude!"
"Yeah, it's a bit mind-blowing," Peter admitted, a smile on his lips. "I'm still trying to wrap my head around it."
"So, how did you find out about her?" Johnny asked, his curiosity getting the better of him.
"Well, she kind of appeared at my aunt's house with a picture of my parents," Peter repeated, his voice filled with a hint of mystery. "This is why I'm here to get Reed's help confirming it."
"I see," Johnny said, his eyes filled with understanding. "You're having doubts, yes?"
Peter nodded, his expression somber. "You can say that again."
Johnny nodded, his eyes filled with excitement. "That's cool, dude. I'm sure Reed will be able to help you out."
The Black Cat scooted closer to Peter, her eyes fixed on Johnny. Johnny winked at her, his playful demeanor unchanged. Felicia rolled her eyes, thinking, 'This guy doesn't know when to quit.'
"That's what I'm hoping for. I want to get to the bottom of this woman's mystery before I consider heading somewhere else for DNA testing." Spider-Man interjects, "My secret identity is on a need-to-know basis. I can't risk my identity being exposed or anyone misusing my blood for their own sinister purposes."
"Peter, I've mentioned this before. Why not take off the mask?" Johnny suggested. "People are more likely to trust someone without a mask, and it would help to show a friendly face."
"Not a chance, Johnny. I've made some formidable enemies during my time as Spider-Man, and the last thing I want is to expose who I really am," Peter replied firmly.
"Just putting it out there," Johnny said with a shrug.
"Remember Doris and the Beetle?" Peter asked, prompting Johnny to shift the conversation.
Johnny's curiosity got the best of him as he inquired, "So, how did you find out about her again?"
Peter rolled his eyes and replied sarcastically, "Oh sure, change the subject when the truth gets uncomfortable."
"Come on, Spidey," Torch interjected. "I'm just saying it wouldn't hurt to be honest, but hey, do what you want."
"First off, Johnny, not everyone is a celebrity hero like the Fantastic Four or Captain America," Peter shot back. "And let's not forget that the Daily Bugle is running a smear campaign against me."
Black Cat scoffed, thinking, 'Only because you let it happen instead of confronting J. Jonah Jameson for turning public opinion against you.' She scooted closer to Peter; her eyes fixed on Johnny. Johnny looked at her again and winked, his playful demeanor unchanged.
With an exaggerated eye roll, Felicia clung to Spider-Man's arm, shaking her head at Human Torch, who was clearly trying to charm her. Peter took the opportunity to wrap his arm around Felicia, feeling her lean into him comfortably.
Meanwhile, Johnny figured it was time to ease off on the flirting with Black Cat, especially since Peter was shooting him a warning glance. Still, he thought a little teasing was harmless, considering how seldom they all got together, despite being city neighbors. After all, they rarely had the chance to hang out.
"By the way, Peter, is that a new Spider-suit? Or is this the black suit just signaling that someone in your rouges gallery pissed you off?" Johnny asked, his curiosity piqued.
Peter scratched the back of his head. "It's complicated, Johnny. It would be better to discuss this at our usual spot."
Johnny looked at Peter, noticing how tired he was. "Sure," he said, understandingly.
Finally, they reached an isolated lab where Reed Richards, the leader of the Fantastic Four, was working on an invention. He was stretched all over the place, making calculations on a new device, muttering to himself as he worked.
Felicia looked around as Mister Fantastic was stretched out. That's when Johnny addressed him. "Yo, Reed, you got a visitor," Johnny said, his voice filled with a hint of excitement.
"Hmm?" Reed paused his work and looked back. "Well, I'll be," he said, his expression turning into a surprised smile.
Returning to normal, Reed put his hands in his pockets and walked up to Peter. "Well, this is a surprise. Peter, long time no see," Reed said, extending his hand.
Both men shook hands, their friendship evident in the warmth of their handshake.
"Hey, Reed, how are you doing?" Peter asked, returning the smile.
"Besides creating a new invention, we've been dealing with the Mole Man," Reed replied, his voice filled with a hint of exhaustion. "So, what brings you here to our home?"
"I was hoping you could help me with something," Peter said, a mix of hope and anxiety evident in his eyes. "I have a hair sample from a relative who claims to be my sister. Can you run a DNA test using my hair to see if there's a match? I would go to a regular lab, but my secret identity is something I prefer to keep under wraps."
"I understand," Reed replied, studying Peter's expression. "It's not an issue. I'll have the results for you by tomorrow."
"Thanks a lot, Reed," Peter said, shaking his hand again. He then turned to Johnny. "Meet me at our usual spot in two hours. I have something I need to handle."
Johnny nodded, curious about what Peter had to share. He watched Peter donned his mask and took Black Cat's hand as they exited the lab.
Felicia observed the interaction between Peter and Reed, her thoughts swirling with anticipation. She was eager to learn the DNA test results, assuming Peter would be willing to share them with her. As she was guided by the handout of the Fantastic Four headquarters, she paused to take in the array of gadgets and inventions surrounding her.
"So, how do you know The Fantastic Four?" Felicia asked, turning to Peter as they walked to the exit.
"Well, back when I first started the Spider-Man heroics as a young teen, I only planned to do it for cash," Peter replied. "But since the FF doesn't pay people to protect the world, I didn't join."
"I see," Felicia nodded, her eyes filled with understanding.
"But after saving Johnny's girlfriend Doris Evan during my college years, we've been on the occasional team-up and developed a friendship," Peter continued.
"Is there a hero you haven't met?" Felicia asked, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Peter laughed. "Maybe a few," he replied. "But the Fantastic Four are some of the most respected heroes in the city."
Felicia smiled, her heartwarming. She was glad that Peter had such strong connections with other heroes. Knowing he was part of a larger community of good people gave her a sense of security.
As they swung through the city, Felicia couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The adventure was far from over. There was still so much to do and so many challenges to face. But she was confident that they could overcome anything with Peter by her side.
As they swung through the bustling streets of Hell's Kitchen, Peter turned to Felicia and asked, "So, who's the next target we need to get the USB from?"
With a glance, Black Cat replied, "I managed to grab five from The Manfredi, Carbones, Libris, Nefaria, and The Ritters. The last one is from the Gnucci family."
Peter recognized those names; over the years, he had thwarted their drug trafficking operations and meddled in their arms dealings. These Mafia families were notorious for their lack of hospitality, so he was taken aback that Felicia had somehow navigated past Silvermane, a man notoriously armed to the teeth.
"By the way, Cat, are you sure you don't know who's trying to take you out?" Spider-Man asked, concern evident in his tone.
"I can't say for certain, but I know his aim is deadly accurate," Black Cat replied, her gaze sharpening. "He got me right on the side of my rib."
"Nobody has perfect aim," Spider-Man countered, skepticism creeping into his voice.
"I'm not so sure, Spidey..." Black Cat admitted, uncertainty coloring her tone. "Kraven could be a strong suspect."
"Not Kraven. He's bound by a code of honor, even if he does use poisonous gas," Peter said, his expression serious. "He enjoys the thrill of the hunt rather than just eliminating his target. I saw your injuries; they were way too close to vital organs."
Black Cat's brow furrowed, a mix of confusion and irritation crossing her face. "I still can't believe you used that Parasite on me," she said, a hint of bitterness in her voice.
"It was either that or a trip to the hospital," Spider-Man replied firmly. "I had to make a choice, and I chose to save your life."
Her anger began to dissipate as Black Cat's eyes softened. Deep down, she knew he was right and felt grateful for his intervention.
"I know how much you dislike hospitals, especially after those two incidents—one with Doc Ock and the other with Venom," Peter said, his tone laced with worry.
Black Cat couldn't help but recall the terrifying moment when Doc Ock had her tangled in his metal tentacles, nearly ending her life with a hail of gunfire. Then there was Venom, the other villain who had sent her to the hospital. Being near the symbiote, even in Peter's presence, made her uneasy. She was thankful to have survived those harrowing experiences, yet the memories left deep scars on her mind and body.
During those moments, Peter indeed recognized his feelings for Felicia, leading him to reveal his secret identity to her the next day.
The rest, as they say, is history. Felicia struggled to accept that Peter was just an ordinary man beneath the mask, and she couldn't grasp his need for everyday life. Although Peter felt hurt, he chose to continue their relationship, as it was the first time he could be open about his life as Spider-Man.
'Sometimes I wonder if I'm just drawn to pain,' Spider-Man mused, a sardonic smile creeping onto his face.
Apex shot back with a biting, clever comeback that struck a nerve with Peter: 'You know, considering how toxic Felicia had been, I'd say you fit right in.'
'That's not amusing, Apex,' Peter snapped, irritation creeping into his tone. 'Felicia is an incredible woman.'
'Oh, is she?' Apex countered, sarcasm oozing from every word. 'The same woman who almost got you killed on several occasions. The one who brings you nothing but emotional chaos? And let's not forget, she kept your pregnancy a secret. Yeah, she sounds like a real gem.'
Peter rolled his eyes, mentally chastising himself for continuing this back-and-forth. 'Apex, that's enough,' he said with determination. 'I'm not in the mood for your sarcasm.'
Apex laughed, clearly enjoying the exchange. 'Listen, Parker, sometimes you need to confront reality. Felicia is a toxic influence; you'd be better off without her. But hey, I wouldn't mind seeing her in your little harem.'
Peter chose to ignore Apex, his thoughts consumed by memories of Felicia. He recognized that Apex was trying to sway his feelings, to pit him against her. He was still upset with her for keeping Felicity away for four long years. Yet, he couldn't deny that Apex had a point; Felicia could be a handful. Her temper could ignite over the most minor things, and her impulsiveness often led to trouble.
He let out a heavy sigh, torn between love and frustration. He cared for Felicia deeply, but their relationship was anything but stable. However, he had noticed a profound sense of regret in her lately, especially when she pleaded on her knees for her daughter not to be rejected—something he never thought he'd witness.
"Felicia has faced a lot," he murmured, empathy lacing his words. 'But she's different now. I can't quite put my finger on it, but she changed the last time I saw her.'
'Did she really? Or is it just an act?' Apex questioned; its tone laced with skepticism. 'A leopard never truly changes its spots, does it?'
Dismissing Apex entirely, Peter stood firm in his conviction. He trusted Felicia and her capacity for growth and was determined to give her one more shot at showing to validate herself.
At a distance, a red figure was in the distance, looking in their direction and hearing Spider-Man's webs swinging. Firing off the Billy club grappling hook, Daredevil swung to catch up to the wall-crawler.
Black Cat noticed this and tapped Spider-Man. Spidey looked back as Black Cat pointed out Daredevil behind them, and he descended to a nearby rooftop.
"Daredevil," Spider-Man announced, his voice filled with surprise and curiosity.
"Spider-Man," Daredevil responded, his voice deep and gravelly. "I have some intel from Murdock. Word on the street is someone is collecting Maggia's secrets. I want to know who."
"Well, that's sort of a bit of a complication," Spider-Man said, his eyes darting between Daredevil and Black Cat.
Black Cat's eyes narrowed as she stared at Daredevil. She had heard rumors of a man dressed in red in Hell's Kitchen, but she had never met the vigilante until today.
"Complication or not, I must know," Daredevil explained, his voice filled with urgency. "Collecting Maggia's secrets cannot be easy. Many people have died trying to obtain such information."
Black Cat, positioned behind Spider-Man, inquired, "So, what do you plan to do with that information?"
Daredevil turned to her, sensing the quickening of her heartbeat, piquing his interest. "And who might you be?"
"I'm the Black Cat," She replied, her tone tinged with pride.
"Ah, the infamous feline femme fatale that even Spider-Man couldn't bring to heel," Daredevil remarked, his voice a blend of intrigue and seriousness.
Spider-Man shifted uncomfortably. If he upheld his moral compass firmly and strictly, then Daredevil was a different level of strictness. He was as unyielding as they come, especially regarding the law; Matt is a lawyer.
Daredevil's face remained stoic as he focused on the Black Cat, stating, "Ah, I see. The notorious, infamous feline thief who poses a challenge even for Spider-Man in the pursuit of justice."
Felicia playfully draped her arms around Peter's neck, her body snug against his back, her curves pressing into him. Her eyes danced with mischief as she teased Spider-Man, giving him a gentle poke on his head. "Oh, lighten up," she said, her voice laced with sarcasm. "I'm just incredibly elusive and utterly irresistible simultaneously."
Peter could feel a warm blush spreading across his cheeks as Cat's body pressed against him, her curves making it hard to focus. Felicia was a handful, but her playful flirting was impossible to resist.
"What exactly is your connection to the secrets of the Maggia, Black Cat?" Daredevil asked, his voice filled with curiosity.
The platinum blonde turned serious. "That is for me to know," She replied, her tone firm.
"So, you do know something," Daredevil pressed, his eyes narrowing.
"Again, it's not your concern," Cat responded, her voice laced with a hint of annoyance. "I have a situation, and I'm going to handle it with my dear Spidey-poo."
Daredevil turned slightly to Spider-Man, his eyes filled with seriousness and intrigue. "Spider-Man, a word with you in private," he said.
Peter unhooked Felicia from his back, and the two men went far away from Black Cat's ears. Felicia watched them curiously, her mind racing. She recognized the nervous tick when Peter ran a hand through his masked head.
She wondered what they were talking about.
In the shadows of the rooftop, the two vigilantes spoke in low voices. "Peter, what's going on here?" Daredevil asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and seriousness.
"Matt, it's a complicated situation," Peter replied, nervously scratching his head.
"I'm used to complicated," Matt shot back with a smirk, his sarcasm evident. "What does she know?"
"It's a very sensitive issue right now," Peter said, glancing between Daredevil and Black Cat. "To put it simply, I have a daughter with Black Cat, and Hammerhead has taken her and her friend hostage."
Daredevil's expression hardened as he crossed his arms. "I get it," he said. "But what's the connection?"
"Let's just say if Black Cat doesn't cooperate, our daughter could be in danger," Peter warned, a dangerous tone lacing his words.
"Interesting," Daredevil replied, his gaze sharpening. "In that case, I'm ready to help you with this."
"Are you sure about this, Matt?" Peter asked, a mix of skepticism and respect in his tone.
"Believe me, the Maggia are deeply involved in black-market scheming, and taking down the crime families could ultimately benefit the city," Daredevil explained.
"That's a valid point, but I require information on the Big Boss," Spider-Man pressed, his tone firm.
"Big Boss?" Daredevil repeated, raising his eyebrows in surprise.
"Exactly, the Big Boss. Cat mentioned there's someone with considerable power pulling the strings from behind the scenes," Spider-Man elaborated, his eyes aflame with a mix of anger and frustration. "I can't identify who it is, but the only ones with that level of influence are either Tombstone or Kingpin."
"I understand," Daredevil replied, thoughtfully rubbing his chin.
"Black Cat has been collecting the USBs to hand over to Hammerhead," Spider-Man continued.
"Then we'll dive deep into this rabbit hole and uncover who this mysterious figure is," Daredevil asserted. "I've heard whispers that Bullseye is after our feline ally."
Peter's expression shifted to concern. "Bullseye?"
"Yes, a highly lethal assassin," Daredevil stated, urgently lacing his voice. "A mercenary shrouded in mystery not much is known about the man called Bullseye. But from my own encounters, I can tell you he possesses an extraordinary talent for throwing any object with pinpoint accuracy and lethality that borders on superhuman. His ability to turn everyday items into deadly weapons makes him more dangerous than many with superhuman abilities."
"Yikes," Peter replied, a blend of fear and admiration in his tone.
"Yikes, indeed," Daredevil agreed, nodding. "But I need to confirm this."
After a brief journey, they finally arrived at their destination at the Gnucci Family. The trio stood a hundred feet away, and Black Cat raised her binoculars to examine the building thoroughly. It was swarming with guards.
"There are security personnel everywhere," Black Cat growled, frustration evident in her tone.
"I should mention that I'm blind, so I can't see any of them," Daredevil replied, maintaining his calm demeanor. "Can you estimate their numbers?"
Black Cat stared at him, momentarily taken aback. Then she turned to Spider-Man. "Are you seriously letting a blind guy assist us?"
Murdock's frown deepened, annoyance flashing across his face. "Just because I'm blind doesn't mean I can't contribute," he asserted, his voice steady.
Black Cat regarded him with skepticism, her thoughts racing. "I don't have time for this," she insisted urgently. "My friend and daughter are in peril, and I refuse to wait idly by!"
Just as she pivoted to leave, a Billy Club struck her from behind. Stumbling, she whirled around, fury igniting in her eyes. "Did you just hit me with a stick?" she yelled.
As Spider-Man sensed the escalating conflict, he readied himself to intervene, but Apex halted him. Mystified by the symbiote's sudden restraint, he inquired about its reasoning. Apex, however, said nothing, simply remarking, 'Let's see how this unfolds.'
In that moment, Black Cat launched herself at Daredevil. The blind hero deftly evaded her strike, her claws slicing through empty space as she failed to make contact. He shifted gracefully, narrowly escaping another attack aimed at his face.
Frustrated, Black Cat swiped at the ground, but Daredevil countered by executing a backward flip to avoid her. He landed in a fighting stance, beckoning her to come at him. Incensed, she shrieked and unleashed a flurry of punches and kicks, but he effortlessly blocked each one with precision. Seizing her leg, he swiftly swept her other leg out from under her, sending her crashing down.
Looking down at Black Cat, Daredevil's gaze blended amusement and admiration. He twirled his Billy club skillfully, ready for her next move as he adopted a defensive stance.
Now thoroughly enraged, the platinum blonde sprang back to her feet, teeth clenched. "Don't you dare look down on me!" she bellowed, fury radiating from her. She charged at the man in red, but before she could react, Daredevil expertly tripped her with the pole, pinning her onto her back.
Peter grimaced, feeling sympathy for Felicia, but the symbiote remained impassive. Mentally, he concluded, 'So that was your reason for holding me back.'
Apex responded with a chuckle, hinting at amusement. 'Sometimes, it's wise not to underestimate someone; there's a lesson in humility,' It said, followed by a cackle. 'And I just wanted to see Felicia get taken down a peg.'
Rolling his eyes, Peter's frustration was palpable. "Oh brother," he muttered, shaking his head.
Felicia let out a frustrated grunt, the ache in her stomach keeping her from moving freely. Daredevil seized the moment to remind her, "Never underestimate your opponents. Just because I can't see doesn't mean I lack my strengths." With a swift motion, he broke his staff in two. "The greatest threat lies in underestimating those you face. And remember, everyone has their weaknesses, just like you do."
Anger flashed in Cat's eyes as she turned away, forcing herself to stand despite the pain. She stormed off, her irritation palpable. Spider-Man let out a resigned sigh and followed her. He wrapped his arms around her from behind, and she instinctively leaned into him.
Daredevil approached, and the three stood silently, gazing out over the city. For a moment, the air was thick with unspoken words until Spider-Man finally broke the silence. "You didn't have to put her in her place like that," he said, a trace of irritation in his tone.
"Perhaps, but life isn't designed to cater to our desires," Daredevil replied, his demeanor steady and composed. "You know the saying, 'life isn't fair.' You, of all people, should get that."
Black Cat, still fuming, muttered under her breath, "What a jerk."
"If you only knew the battles I've faced," Daredevil said, momentarily setting aside his Billy Club. "To change your life, you must take full responsibility. Complaining is merely a crutch for a victimhood mentality."
Felicia listened closely, her anger gradually dissipating. Deep down, she recognized the truth in his words and felt a renewed determination to transform her life.
At that moment, Spider-Man's spider-sense blared, causing him to freeze. Felicia, noticing the shift in Peter's demeanor, immediately went on high alert. Daredevil was also ready for action, picking up on the rapid heartbeat. As a bullet whizzed toward them, Spider-Man swiftly dodged, yanking Felicia out of harm's way. Daredevil dropped to the ground as well.
"I missed... I never miss." a new voice cut in, tinged with irritation.
Daredevil growled, "Bullseye."
"Well, well, well. Look who it is—the blind man," Bullseye mocked, stepping out from the shadows with a sneer.
"You know, for someone touted as the city's deadliest assassin, you might want to sharpen your skills," Daredevil shot back, sarcasm dripping from his words.
Bullseye's eyes narrowed; fury evident on his face. "Is that so? Let's see if you're still talking after I drive a dart through your skull."
"Oh, come on," Daredevil scoffed, rolling his eyes. "You're no match for me."
Bullseye's laughter rang out, chilling the air. "We'll find out soon enough," he replied, his tone foreboding.
"What do you want, Bullseye?" Daredevil asked.
"Oh, just a little visit," Bullseye said, amusement lacing his words. "Thought I'd drop by to say hi, take out a few annoying heroes, and maybe deal with a certain Cat who has some sensitive intel that doesn't belong to her."
"You won't get anywhere near her," Daredevil declared, his voice unwavering.
"Oh, we'll see about that," Bullseye replied, his eyes glinting with a cold, calculating intensity.
Spider-Man kept his grip on Black Cat, leaning into murmur, "You know what to do. I think it's time for Daredevil and me to join forces against this guy. Just wait for my signal."
Black Cat nodded, her expression a blend of resolve and apprehension. "Be careful, Spider-Man," she whispered, her voice barely above a breath. "I believe this is the one who tried to take me out."
"Let's see how he fares against my spider-sense," Spider-Man replied, a playful grin forming on his face. Black Cat gently cupped Peter's cheek as they both regained their footing. He took her hand, a silent vow of solidarity between them.
"How sweet," Bullseye sneered, his tone laced with mockery. "But I'm not here to play nice." He aimed his gun, poised to retaliate.
In a flash, Spider-Man leaped in front of Black Cat, shooting a symbiote tendril at the weapon and crushing it, leaving Bullseye stunned.
"What the?!" Bullseye shouted, his eyes wide with disbelief.
Sensing the imminent threat, Daredevil charged at Bullseye, and his Billy club was raised high. The two engaged in a brutal clash, fists flying and bodies colliding intensely.
Spider-Man caught Black Cat's gaze, urgency and determination evident in his eyes. Felicia nodded, her heart racing. She understood the need for swift action to grab the USB and escape before it was too late. With fierce determination, Felicia sprinted toward the Gnucci house, her movements sharp and focused. She was resolute in her mission to save her daughter, willing to do whatever it took to succeed.
On the other hand, the battle between Spider-Man, Daredevil, and Bullseye was a spectacle of skill and agility. With his uncanny accuracy, Bullseye hurled a barrage of projectiles at the heroes, his aim seemingly flawless. With his agility and spider-sense, Spider-Man dodged the incoming attacks with ease, his movements fluid and graceful. Daredevil, relying on his heightened senses and years of martial arts training, countered Bullseye's attacks with deadly precision.
Bullseye was frustrated. He had never faced such formidable opponents before. Spider-Man's agility and unpredictability were a constant challenge, and Daredevil's skill and precision were equally impressive. Bullseye increased the intensity of his attacks, his movements becoming more frenzied.
Spider-Man and Daredevil worked together, their movements synchronized, their attacks coordinated. They dodged Bullseye's projectiles, countered his strikes, and returned fire with their own. The battle raged, a whirlwind of fists, kicks, and flying objects.
Growing more desperate, Bullseye threw a barrage of projectiles at Spider-Man, hoping to overwhelm him. But Spider-Man, with his incredible agility, dodged each one, his movements blurring the human eye.
Seeing an opportunity, Daredevil launched himself at Bullseye, raising his Billy Club. Bullseye was caught off guard and unable to react in time. The Billy Club connected with his face, sending him crashing.
Spider-Man and Daredevil stood over Bullseye, their breaths heavy, their bodies aching from the intense battle. Bullseye, dazed and confused, slowly rose to his feet. He looked at the heroes with a mixture of anger and respect.
"You two are quite impressive," he said, wiping a swipe of blood from his face.
"We're just trying to protect the city," Spider-Man replied, his eyes filled with determination.
"Heh, you waste your time," Bullseye said, his voice filled with a hint of contempt. He dropped a pellet, and the battlefield became blurry smoke.
Hearing Bullseye's footsteps, Daredevil knew that he was after Black Cat. "We have to stop him; he's going after Black Cat!" he shouted, his voice filled with urgency.
The two vigilantes escaped the smoke and charged towards Bullseye, their bodies moving in unison. The battle continued a fierce clash of wills and skills.
Meanwhile, Black Cat crouched behind an air conditioning unit on the rooftop, her heart racing. Gunfire erupted from the Gnucci residence, the sound reverberating through the city. She cursed her misfortune, her irritation growing with every tick of the clock.
The chaos stirred up by the man in the dark outfit, marked with a bullseye on his head, had put the Gnucci family on high alert. The police would surely be on their way, and the USB would soon be relocated, complicating her mission.
Aware that snipers were scanning the rooftops for her, Black Cat felt the weight of her predicament. She cursed her luck once more, her thoughts racing. She needed to infiltrate the Gnucci home and secure the USB before it slipped from her grasp.
Her eyes darted around, searching for an entry point. The building was fortified with security cameras and guards patrolling the area, making stealthy entry a daunting task.
Taking a deep breath, Black Cat focused her mind. She had to devise a plan quickly; this opportunity was too crucial to let slip away, especially with her daughter Felicity and Lorina in peril.
Peeking out from behind the AC unit, she pulled out her binoculars, scanning for an opening. As she suspected, the snipers were methodically sweeping the area. "There has to be a blind spot somewhere," Felicia muttered, determination lacing her voice.
Just then, she noticed a vehicle departing from the side of the building, revealing an entrance. Inspiration struck when she saw a maid stepping out for a smoke. If she could pose as a maid, she might gain unrestricted access to the Gnucci home. But first, she needed to drop to street level and find a disguise. Unfortunately, she was without her hoodie or beanie to conceal her identity.
Black Cat's eyes darted around, searching for a possible solution. She spotted a nearby alleyway and decided to take a chance. She quickly dropped down from the rooftop, landing softly on the pavement. She darted into the alleyway, hoping to avoid being seen.
"If only I had my bag," Black Cat sighed, her voice laced with irritation. She had been forced to abandon it in a secure spot while evading her pursuers. She longed for the moment when she could retrieve it once more.
As she scanned the street, Black Cat spotted a delivery truck approaching the Gnucci family. She had been waiting for this opportunity, and she swiftly maneuvered between parked cars, waiting for the truck to halt at a red light.
With agility, she slipped beneath the truck, finding a hidden refuge. Now, all she needed was to remain still and wait.
When the truck finally parked beside a building, she knew she had to be cautious; the drivers would soon be busy unloading and loading their cargo.
Peeking out from her concealed position, Black Cat carefully surveyed the surroundings. Once she confirmed that the area was clear, she crawled out from her hiding spot and began her search for the maid.
Before that, she quickly detoured the back of the truck, where she discovered a few bungee cords. Whatever they were transporting must have been substantial. After grabbing a few cords, she ensured she remained unseen and hopped out of the truck.
Determined, she set off to locate the maid, soon spotting her target still smoking. Stealthily and silently, she approached the girl before delivering a swift knockout blow.
In a flash, Felicia swapped outfits with the maid, quickly undressing the platinum blonde down to her underwear. She then secured the maid with bungee cords and used a spare piece of fabric to silence her. The maid's uniform felt tight, but she could make it work. After all, hiding her identity as the Black Cat was essential, and she hoped these thugs were as clueless as they appeared. With a quick adjustment, she re-entered the building, leaving the other girl tucked away in a shadowy corner of the alley. It was time to shine, and Felicia understood the moment's urgency.
The confrontation with Bullseye had finally reached its conclusion. Spider-Man successfully incapacitated the lethal assassin, securing him to the wall with his webbing. Bullseye hung there, unconscious, his body slumped against the brick surface.
Turning to Daredevil, Spider-Man couldn't help but grin, a sense of accomplishment washing over him. "That was quite a spectacle," he remarked, his tone a blend of relief and fatigue.
Daredevil acknowledged him with a nod, his keen senses alert to their surroundings. "We should wait for Black Cat," he suggested, his demeanor steady and composed. "She's likely maneuvering through the Gnucci residence."
Spider-Man agreed, fully aware of Felicia's skills. He understood the Gnucci home was likely fortified with security, and he hoped she would locate the USB and make it out unscathed. As they stood by, Spider-Man reflected on the day's tumultuous events.
He had confronted Bullseye, rescued Black Cat, and was now on a mission to save their daughter while unraveling a plot involving Maggia. It had been a grueling day, and he longed for respite. However, rest was a luxury he couldn't afford, especially with the ticking clock of Venom's 24-hour ultimatum looming over him, and the urgency to save Mary Jane weighing heavily on his mind.
After twenty minutes of waiting, Spider-Man was ready to rush in and check on Felicia, but Daredevil held him back. "Hold on, I hear shouting," he said, urgency lacing his tone.
Spider-Man peered ahead and spotted Black Cat bursting through the door, with Gnucci's men yelling at her, throwing insults and bullets her way. She skillfully dodged their attacks.
With sirens wailing in the distance, Spider-Man sprang into action, catching her around the waist and leaping away to safety as he snatched her from mid-air. Cat clung tightly to Peter, her heart racing. "Follow my lead to locate the USBs," she instructed, her voice slightly shaky.
Daredevil was close behind. After another ten minutes, Felicia scoured an alley and discovered the remaining five USBs concealed behind a heap of trash.
Black Cat let out a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness," she breathed, her voice a blend of exhaustion and gratitude.
"Well, this has certainly been a day to remember," Daredevil remarked, scanning the area keenly. "Spider-Man, I must take my leave, but if this situation escalates, let me know immediately."
"Absolutely," Spider-Man replied, determination evident in his voice. "Thanks for your assistance today."
The two heroes exchanged a firm handshake before Daredevil vanished into the shadows.
Turning back to Felicia, Spider-Man asked, "What's our next move?" His voice carried a mix of fatigue and eagerness.
"The Squalo Pizzeria in Little Italy," Felicia replied, her eyes sparkling with resolve. "That's where Hammerhead will be hiding out."
Spider-Man nodded, his thoughts racing. It was time to face Hammerhead, rescue Felicia and Lorina, and end this chaos.
The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with orange, pink, and purple hues. As the last rays of sunlight kissed the towering skyscrapers of New York City, casting long shadows across the streets, the city seemed to exhale a sigh of relief. The hustle and bustle of the workday began to slow as New Yorkers made their way home or sought out entertainment.
Meanwhile, high above the city, Spider-Man swung through the air, Black Cat clinging tightly to his waist. The cityscape, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, stretched out before them like a vast, intricate tapestry. With its towering skyscrapers and bridges, the iconic skyline seemed to shimmer in the fading light.
Spider-Man easily navigated the city, dodging obstacles and weaving through the traffic. Black Cat took in the breathtaking view, her eyes wide with wonder. She laid her head on Peter's back, tightening herself into him. The city was a world of its own, a place of endless energy and opportunity. As they swung towards Little Italy, the familiar sights and sounds of the city filled the air. The aroma of Italian food wafted through the streets, and the chatter of people filled the air. It was a world away from the chaos and danger they had just escaped.
Spider-Man landed on a rooftop overlooking the Squalo Pizzeria, his eyes scanning the area for any sign of Hammerhead. Black Cat, her heart pounding in her chest, stood beside him, her eyes filled with fear and determination. She took a deep breath. She needed to end this charade and never again go back to the ways of villainy.
"You said back in my penthouse you and I will talk," Black Cat said, her voice filled with a mix of determination and anxiety.
"Yes, once this is over, we will have a long, long talk," Peter replied, his voice filled with urgency. I haven't forgotten. I want to know what is going through that head of yours, Felicia, but it will have to wait."
Peter turned invisible, his body disappearing into the thin air. "In the meantime, I'm going to go invisible, and you do what you must," he said, his voice echoing.
Black Cat nodded, her eyes filled with determination. She knew what to do and was ready to face the consequences.
"Come on, Spider-Man, and watch out for anyone who might try to touch you," Black Cat instructed as she sidled up the building and descended the fire escape. As she pushed the door open, a fresh wave of raucous laughter and the rich scent of tomato sauce enveloped her.
The atmosphere buzzed with the fragrance of high-end cologne and the camaraderie of men who thrived in the shadows of power. She went straight to the bartender, who was busy serving patrons.
A few glances and appreciative whistles were thrown her way, and she noticed. "Hey there, gorgeous. It's been a while. What can I get for you?" he asked, his voice rough yet not unkind.
Felicia gestured for him to come closer, and as he leaned in, she whispered, "Let Hammerhead know, 'The Black Cat sends her regards.'"
The bartender leaned back, giving a subtle nod. "Right this way," he said, motioning toward a swinging door with the faded sign: 'Employees Only.'
Black Cat followed him once more, and just like before, he halted at a stainless-steel counter, reaching for a well-worn leather bag hanging from a hook. Felicia slipped it on, feeling a solid grip on her arm as they maneuvered through the narrow hallways.
Hammerhead was buried in paperwork when a sharp knock interrupted his concentration. "Enter!" he barked, irritation lacing his tone.
"Boss," the bartender murmured, his voice low and respectful. "The Black Cat sends her regards."
Felicia strode into the office, her demeanor exuding confidence and resolve. She dropped the leather bag onto the desk, her gaze locked onto Hammerhead. "I've completed your task," she declared, her voice unwavering.
The bartender discreetly exited, shutting the door behind him.
"Good," Hammerhead replied, his eyes narrowing as they fell on the bag. "I assume you have all six USBs?"
Felicia unzipped the bag and tossed it onto Hammerhead's desk with a flick of her wrist. "Hope you choke on it," she spat, venom dripping from her words.
Hammerhead opened the bag, revealing the six USBs just as he anticipated. To ensure Black Cat hadn't played him, he booted up his computer and examined each USB's contents.
After a thorough check, a grin spread across his face, satisfaction gleaming in his eyes. "Well done, Felicia," he acknowledged a trace of admiration in his voice. "Your daughter will be safe."
"Then we're finished here," Felicia replied, relief mingling with impatience. "You promised to unveil the phantom benefactor. I delivered your USBs."
Hammerhead's gaze turned icy and calculating. "You're not in a position to negotiate," he warned, menace dripping from his words. "Remember: prove your worth, and perhaps I'll reveal the identity of the Big Boss."
Felicia's eyes narrowed, a growl escaping her lips. "That wasn't the agreement!" she yelled, fury igniting her voice.
Hammerhead remained unfazed, his tone chilling. "You've only done half your job. The Spider still breathes, which means I owe you nothing."
She hesitated, weighing her options. "Fine, but can I leave now with my daughter and the White Rabbit?" she asked, hope and fear intertwining in her voice.
"Maybe you can, or maybe you can't," Hammerhead replied, his tone cruel.
Felicia's gaze shot wide, then narrowed into dangerous slits, her expression twisted with fury. "That wasn't the agreement!" she spat, her voice a low growl.
"I warned you, Miss Hardy, in your penthouse," Hammerhead replied, his tone icy and methodical. "No one truly walks away from a life of crime, not even you. You'll remain under my watchful eye."
"And what if I say no?" Black Cat challenged her voice a blend of defiance and trepidation.
"Unfortunate events can occur, Felicia," Hammerhead said, his tone oozing with threat. "And sometimes, those events can be deadly."
Felicia's heart raced, adrenaline surging through her veins. She realized she was trapped, a mere piece in Hammerhead's lethal game. But surrender was not an option. She would devise a plan to break free and protect her daughter and Lorina, no matter the price.
Black Cat maintained her composure, inhaling and exhaling steadily. She sensed Peter's presence as his arms enveloped her. Despite the urge to lean into him, she concentrated on the mission ahead. "I regret that you feel this way, Hammerhead, but consider this my official exit from a life of crime," she declared, her tone a blend of defiance and resolution. "Spider, now!"
Before Hammerhead could grasp the situation, Spider-Man burst onto the scene, his voice resonating. "Surprise!"
"What the!" Hammerhead shouted his expression one of disbelief. In an instant, a thick webbing trapped him to the chair, rendering him helpless.
"You'll pay for this, Felicia!" Hammerhead snarled, fury evident in his voice. Felicia spun him around in his chair, disorienting him. "The only thing I regret is ever associating with lowlifes like you," she retorted, her voice dripping with contempt. "Now... where is my daughter?"
Hammerhead glared back, his eyes burning with rage. "Good luck locating her," he hissed, venom lacing his words before he spat at her.
Felicia wiped the spit from her face, her anger briefly overshadowing her concern for her daughter. She was ready to strike him, but Spider-Man caught her wrist, halting her.
"He's not worth it," Spider-Man advised. "We have more important matters to attend to."
Felicia nodded, her gaze a mix of sorrow and resolve. She understood he was right. Hammerhead wasn't worth her time or energy. She needed to focus on finding her daughter. With that, Felicia turned and exited the room, her heart heavy with anxiety but her determination steadfast. She would locate her daughter, no matter the cost.
Black Cat remained calm, breathing in and out. She knew Peter was nearby as she felt his arms wrap around her. She tried very hard not to lean into him, her mind focused on the task at hand.
"I'm sorry you feel that way, Hammerhead, but consider this my resignation from a life of crime," she said, her voice filled with a mixture of defiance and finality.
Before Hammerhead could process what was happening, Spider-Man reappeared, his voice echoing through the room. "Surprise!"
"What the!" Hammerhead exclaimed, his eyes wide with shock. Before he could react, a load of webbing tied him to the chair, immobilizing him.
"You'll regret this, Felicia!" Hammerhead growled; his voice filled with rage.
Felicia spun him in his chair, causing him to get dizzy. "The only thing I regret is ever involving myself with scum like you in the past," she spat, her voice filled with disgust. "Now...where is my daughter!"
Hammerhead glared back, his eyes burning with rage. "Good luck locating her," he hissed, venom lacing his words, before he spat at her.
Felicia wiped the spit from her face, her anger briefly overshadowing her concern for her daughter. She was ready to strike him, but Spider-Man caught her wrist, halting her. "He's not worth it," Spider-Man advised. "We have more important matters to attend to."
Felicia nodded, her gaze a mix of sorrow and resolve. She understood he was right. Hammerhead wasn't worth her time or energy. She needed to focus on finding her daughter. With that, Felicia turned and exited the room, her heart heavy with anxiety but her determination steadfast. She would locate her daughter, no matter the cost.
After breaking free from Hammerhead, Spider-Man concentrated intensely, trying to use his spider-sense to locate Felicity. He could detect Cindy's presence, but Felicity eluded him for some reason.
Apex mentally chimed in, 'Why not dig deeper into your own instincts, Parker? I can help you sharpen your awareness.'
"Spider?" Black Cat's voice revealed her concern as she looked at him.
Moments later, Spider-Man gestured toward the beacon, saying, "This way."
"How do you know that?" Black Cat asked, surprise evident in her wide eyes.
"I can feel Felicity. It's like how I sense Cindy, but there's a distinction when it comes to her," Peter explained, a blend of confusion and intrigue in his tone.
"In what way is it different?" Black Cat's voice had an undercurrent of jealousy.
"Let's just say being around Cindy makes me feel… well, biologically motivated," Peter confessed, a hint of embarrassment creeping into his voice.
Felicia's expression darkened, and her cheeks flushed. Taking a deep breath, she counted to five before stepping ahead, her anger simmering down. "Let's concentrate on finding Felicity," she asserted, her tone resolute.
Peter chuckled as he followed her, saying, "Hey, you asked!"
The pair crept, their silhouettes merging with the shadows as they maneuvered through the twisting passages of Hammerhead's lair. Spider-Man's heightened senses alerted him to any lurking dangers, while Felicia's nimbleness and stealth made her an essential ally. They skillfully evaded cameras and guards, their actions silent and deliberate.
At last, they encountered a door. With a powerful kick, Spider-Man shattered it open, the hinges cracking under the impact. Felicia dashed inside, her gaze sweeping the room for any trace of her daughter. She quickly spotted Felicity sprawled on the couch, Lorina gently holding her.
Felicia hurried over and enveloped Felicity in her arms, holding her close.
"Mommy!" Felicity exclaimed, her tiny voice brimming with relief as she embraced Felicia.
"I'm fine, too. Thanks for your concern," Lorina interjected with a hint of sarcasm, her tone slightly annoyed.
Felicia clutched Felicity tightly, her heart swelling with love and gratitude. Spider-Man joined the moment, wrapping them both in a comforting hug. In his mind, Spider-Man thought, 'This is the family moment I always dreamed of with Felicia.'
Apex interrupted, 'We must escape now; family can wait.'
Suddenly, alarms blared, filling the space with a loud noise as men shouted, and footsteps thundered across the hallways.
"Time to go," Spider-Man says
"Mr. Floppy!" Felicity wriggled to break free from her parents' embrace to retrieve her beloved stuffed rabbit, but Peter quickly spun a web and handed her the long-eared toy, which she hugged tightly.
Spider-Man led the small group to a vent, overhearing several men nearby. Felicity began to demonstrate her spider abilities, effortlessly scaling the wall as she was instructed to enter the vents. "Since when could Felicity do that?" Peter asked Felicia.
"Back at the penthouse," Felicia explained. "Her powers started to show themselves."
Lorina, clearly unimpressed, remarked, "Do we have to crawl through the vents?"
"It's that, or we get caught. Your choice," Felicia replied.
Lorina groaned but complied. The small group crawled through the vents, their bodies pressed together in a cramped and uncomfortable position. But they persevered, their determination fueled by love and protection.
The small team squeezed through the ventilation shafts, their bodies tightly packed in an awkward and uncomfortable arrangement. Spider-Man and Felicia maneuvered through the narrow passages with surprising agility, their experiences making them adept at such challenges.
Having spent countless hours swinging across the city and going through tight vents when the need arose, Spider-Man had developed a knack for navigating tight spaces, a skill he had honed since his early days.
Felicity, with her childlike wonder, was completely enchanted by the adventure, relishing every moment of the thrill. Peter took care to fasten her favorite stuffed rabbit securely to her back. She found it easy to crawl through the vents, her small stature making it a simple task. Although the dust caused her to sneeze a few times, she was thoroughly enjoying her climb. Her giggles were infectious, but Felicia and Peter gently reminded her to keep her voice down to avoid being caught. They cleverly turned it into a game, which Felicity adored, helping her stay quiet while still having a great time.
Felicia has honed her stealth and acrobatic skills to perfection, making her exceptionally suited for navigating tight spaces. When the situation demands it, squeezing into cramped areas is just another day at the office for her.
In contrast, Lorina faced a more formidable challenge. Her larger stature made it difficult to navigate the cramped vents, and she struggled to keep pace with the others, feeling the strain in her muscles and the quickening of her breath.
Noticing Lorina's struggle, Peter turned to her with concern. "Are you alright?" he asked, his tone filled with empathy.
Lorina managed a nod, attempting to mask her discomfort. "I'm fine," she replied, though her voice betrayed her.
Spider-Man recognized she was not being honest, but he chose not to press her further. Instead, he guided her through the vents, his movements careful and encouraging.
At last, they emerged from the vents, their clothes coated in dust and dirt. Yet, they were safe, and that was what truly mattered.
Felicia looked at the New York skyline from the rooftop of the pizzeria, her eyes filled with relief and awe. "Freedom, finally free," she said, her voice filled with emotion.
Spider-Man nodded, his eyes scanning the city. "You are not safe returning to your old penthouse, Cat," he said, his voice filled with urgency.
"I know," Felicia said with a sigh. "I wouldn't pass Hammerhead to rig my home to explode if I ever set foot."
"Then you are staying at my relative's house," Spider-Man said, his eyes fixed on Felicia.
Felicia was startled, her eyes widening in surprise. "Come again?" she asked, her voice filled with confusion.
Picking up Felicity, Spider-Man said, "I'll explain on the way."
Felicia nodded, her heart filled with a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty. She grabbed Lorina's waist and swung after Spider-Man. As they swung through the city, she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief and hope. The ordeal was finally over, and she was safe.
After a while, ensuring they weren't being tailed—thanks to Spider-Man's keen spider-sense—Felicia, Lorina, and Felicity boarded a train heading back to Queens. Meanwhile, Peter caught a helicopter ride to the Statue of Liberty, where Johnny Storm awaited him.
Once they exchanged greetings and engaged in light conversation, Johnny noticed Peter's troubled demeanor and inquired about what was bothering him. With a heavy sigh, Peter opened about the chaos in his life: the symbiote he was dealing with, his sister Teresa, Felicia and their daughter Felicity, the kidnapping of Mary Jane, the bomb threat, and the looming threat of a mysterious Big Boss. As Peter shared his burdens, Johnny hovered before him, surprised yet empathetic, though he wasn't thrilled about the symbiote named Apex with whom Peter was currently bonded.
"That's my story, Johnny," Peter admitted his voice a blend of fatigue and exasperation.
"Wow, Peter," Johnny responded, his tone sympathetic. "You've got a lot going on. I feel for you, but I know you'll track down Venom."
"But how can I?" Peter exclaimed, throwing his hands up in frustration. "Venom is undetectable to my spider sense."
"Knowing your luck, Peter," Johnny said with a playful glint in his eyes, "He'll come looking for you. Just keep the faith, Spidey."
Johnny shot back towards the city, leaving Peter to wrestle with his thoughts.
Spider-Man contemplated, "Where could Eddie have taken MJ?" He mentally asked Apex, 'Isn't there a way I can sense Eddie like I did before in Rykers?'
'You can, but to find him, you must pay attention to those around you. In other words, you must create a real connection with me. The first time was easier because he was stationary and weak,' Apex replied. Peter frowned at this revelation.
Once again, Peter hopped on a helicopter back to Battery Park, then swung into the city, his mind racing with potential leads. "I have to find MJ; there's no other option, and time is slipping away," he murmured, his resolve unshakeable.
A sharp cackle pierced the air, and Peter instantly recognized the voice. "Look who it is, the big wuss," Venom jeered, swinging through the city alongside Spider-Man, flashing a wide grin. "Hey, Parker! How about a race?"
With that, Venom accelerated, his laughter ringing as he soared through the sky. "Parker really can't stand it when we get the drop on him," he mocked.
Spider-Man said, clearly annoyed, "I can't stand it when he gets the drop on me!"
LXD: Hello, everyone; I hope you enjoyed this lengthy chapter 12. In case you are wondering why it was lengthy, I'm taking a break to recharge myself and step away from the computer. With that said only 10 more reviews until we reach 100, in the short time that I have created this story you have my thanks, there is still plenty of work to get done though. Anyway, given that this chapter is over 20,000 words I'm going to save the responses for next chapter not to make this longer than it already is. As always, please leave a comment, review, favorite, or subscribe, and I'll see you in the next chapter.
