"He saw the same potential I did," Phil murmurs softly. Back when they first met and Clint had been more likely to fight for money than a cause. Phil felt like the only one who saw something in the surly archer, not just in terms of skill, but in personality. Given the right push, Clint could become one of the best. He had become one of the best, worthy of the title Avenger.

He didn't like thinking he and Loki could think along the same paths and reach the same conclusions.

"I think the key phrase there is naturally inclined," he says louder, watching Clint staring at his glass before taking a drink. "You were not naturally inclined to change sides. What he did was unnatural to who you are and what you believe in."

It might have been easier on Clint if it was total control. If Loki pulled his strings like a puppet. The Asgardian had him on a leash but given him just enough freedom, just enough control that Clint would take his actions as his own once let go. Is Loki capable of such foresight? Phil's not sure but it's possible.

"My memories are changed but it doesn't feel like Fury changed anything else. I'm still myself." Except the parts that are changing because of dying and coming back. Knowing he's on an experimental second chance is changing him. How could it not? There is the fear, though, that those changes aren't his own choice.