**Chapter 3: Web of Deception**

The city streets seemed to blur together as Miles walked, his mind stuck on the conversation with Hobie. He knew he couldn't keep up the charade for much longer, but he wasn't sure how to stop it. The weight of his secrets was crushing him, and he felt like he was losing himself in the process. As he turned a corner, he noticed a flyer on a bulletin board. "Spider-Man: Hero or Menace?" it read. Miles' heart sank as he realized that the public was starting to turn against him. The media had been spinning a narrative about Spider-Man's "reckless" behavior, and it seemed like the public was buying it. Miles felt a surge of anger and frustration. He had always tried to be a hero, to do what was right. But now, it seemed like no one appreciated it. He ripped the flyer off the board, crumpling it in his fist. Just then, a hand on his shoulder stopped him. "Hey, kid, I see you're still dealing with the fallout," said a familiar voice. Miles turned to see Spider-Woman, Jessica Drew, standing behind him. She was one of the few Spider-People he had managed to keep in touch with, and he valued her opinion. "Hey, Jess," he said, trying to sound casual. "What's up?" Jessica smiled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Just keeping an eye on things. I see you're still struggling with the whole 'being a hero' thing." Miles sighed, feeling a mix of emotions. "I don't know, Jess. It just feels like everyone's against me. The public, the media... even some of the other Spider-People." Jessica nodded sympathetically. "I know how you feel. But you can't let it get to you. You have to keep doing what you think is right, no matter what others say." Miles nodded, taking her words to heart. Maybe it was time to stop worrying about what others thought and focus on being the best Spider-Man he could be. As they talked, Miles realized that Jessica was being careful not to pry too deeply into his personal life. He appreciated her discretion, but he also wondered if she knew more than she was letting on. "Hey, Jess?" he said, as they parted ways. "Can I ask you something?" "Of course, kid," she replied, her eyes curious. "Do you think... do you think I'm doing okay? As Spider-Man, I mean?" Miles asked, feeling a little vulnerable. Jessica smiled, her expression warm. "I think you're doing great, Miles. You're one of the most talented Spider-People I've ever met. Just remember to trust yourself, and you'll be fine." Miles nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude towards her. Maybe, just maybe, he could find a way to trust himself again. As he walked away, he noticed a figure watching him from across the street. It was Spider-Man Noir, the dark and gritty Spider-Man from a black-and-white universe. Miles felt a shiver run down his spine as their eyes met. What did Spider-Man Noir want? And why was he watching him?