Phil Coulson had seen pain. He knew agony in all its forms, but seeing Clint look like that, look at him like the world crumbled out from under him... it made something break inside. All those times before of them taking turns taking care of each other never prepared him for that kind of agony. Fury had no right to keep him away from Clint or Natasha. Not those two... especially when he knew Clint likely felt his fair share of guilt over his death. A death he really wanted to forget.

Letting out a long breath, he squeezed the blonde's hands and let the younger grip at him for something to steady him. "I'll explain later." His voice was cracking around the edges, but he struggled to keep it even. He had so much explaining to do. This moment slapped him with the realization that keeping Fury's secrets could be a terrible double edged sword.

It made him realize that the staunch exterior of lacking emotion couldn't always be his answer to everything.

Which was why he broke. He used one hand to pull the archer closer while his other arm wrapped around his shoulders so he could hold him close. Let the man hide. He needed to hide right now. "I've got you." He whispered the words into the blonde's hair and closed his eyes. No matter what... saving others... it costs too much for everyone. But it was a price he prayed Clint never had to pay.

"I won't leave unless you tell me to... anything you need. Anything I can do... I know I can't make this better. But I want to be here for you."