**Chapter 2: A Spark of Connection**

The vegan pizza and sad songs Hobie brought over were just what Miles needed to take his mind off things. As they sat on the couch, munching on slices and singing along to the melancholy tunes, Miles felt a weight lift off his shoulders. For the first time in weeks, he was able to relax and be himself. Hobie, sensing Miles's guard was down, decided to press his advantage. "So, Miles, I have to ask," he said, his voice low and conspiratorial. "What's really going on? You've been avoiding me and the rest of the Spider-People for weeks. I get it, things got intense with the whole Spider-Verse thing, but I thought we were better than that." Miles sighed, running a hand through his hair. He hadn't intended to open up to Hobie, but there was something about the other Spider-Punk's gentle demeanor that put him at ease. "I just feel like I was used," Miles said, the words spilling out of him like a confession. "Like, I was just a pawn in their game. They didn't really care about me, they just wanted to use my abilities to further their own goals." Hobie's expression darkened, his eyes flashing with anger. "Who's 'they'?" he asked, his voice tight with tension. Miles hesitated, unsure if he should reveal more. But something about Hobie's expression told him that he could trust him. "The Spider-People," he said, the words feeling bitter on his lips. "I thought they were my friends, but...I don't know, it just feels like they don't care about me as a person. They just care about the Spider-Verse and the battles and the fame." Hobie snorted, rolling his eyes. "That's not true, Miles. At least, not for all of us. I mean, sure, some of the Spider-People can be a bit...self-centered, but that's not true for everyone. And I'm sorry you feel that way, because it's not fair to you." Miles looked at Hobie, searching for any sign of insincerity. But all he saw was kindness and empathy. "You really think that, don't you?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Hobie nodded, his expression softening. "Yeah, I do. And I think you're worth caring about, Miles. You're an amazing person, and you deserve to be treated with respect and kindness." As Hobie spoke, Miles felt a spark of attraction ignite within him. He tried to brush it off, telling himself he was just grateful for Hobie's friendship, but he couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more between them. The music changed, and a melancholy ballad filled the room. Hobie stood up, gesturing for Miles to follow him. "Come on, let's go for a walk," he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I need some fresh air, and I think you do too." Miles nodded, standing up and following Hobie out of the apartment. As they walked through the quiet streets, the cool night air on their faces, Miles felt a sense of freedom he hadn't experienced in weeks. And he couldn't help but wonder if maybe, just maybe, he had found a true friend in Hobie – and maybe something more.