Natasha stayed out of sight while Clint dealt with their little problem. Yes, “their” problem, because although this had been Clint’s screw up they were still partners; if one of them failed they both failed, that was how they worked.

Checking windows, listening at doors, she made sure they still had time, that there was nobody coming for him yet. She couldn’t see what Clint was doing but she could hear every word, every scream, and the arrow striking wood through flesh that had become as recognizable over the years as the sound of a gunshot.

Their victim’s confession made her stop her movements. To escape? For someone who claimed to be under protection, why would he need to escape?