"I think that's because you're so worried about losing what you do have." To Pepper it sounds as if Clint is idealizing the way his relationship with Natasha had been. "But it doesn't have to be that or nothing at all, you know.

"People change. Their relationships change, but that doesn't make it a bad thing." She crouches down to meet his eyes, as Clint remains determined to stare at the floor. "You can grow stronger because of it. Maybe as a couple if that's what you want, or as friends. But those sorts of bonds don't just happen. They have to be developed, and worked on."