For the Taylor Swift Challenge (HPFC)
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Clint didn't know how to feel. On one hand, he felt extremely worried for the man that he had once called a friend. But - this man, this (genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist) man had done something that almost resulted in his death. Of course, in this profession, there were many times that dancing with death was inevitable, but the mistakes that this man made - unforgivable. Natasha had almost died, as well, and that would be something that Clint would never forgive Tony for.
But seeing the man on the floor, unconscious - something tore at Clint, clawing up his insides and struggling to escape - something within him wanted to approach, to try and help the man, but Clint suppressed the feeling.
Yes, Clint knew there was something weird going on, all those months (oh God - has it already been two years?) ago. He was aware that Tony wouldn't just drop everything and abandon his fellow Avengers. There must have been a reason that he couldn't reply to any of their messages.
But Tony didn't defend himself. Natasha attacked with words and even daggers, ready to shed his blood. Steve attacked with accusing gazes, disapproving glances and words. Bruce just stood there, shaking his head, resigned. At the time, Clint was unconscious.
Clint awoke, not sure what was going on. Natasha told him that Stark had abandoned their mission and left them to die. Steve didn't say anything. Bruce just shrugged and looked away. In the beginning, Clint tried to defend Tony, unsure of what was going on and knowing that Natasha's words were biased.
Of course, there wasn't much that Clint could really do - Stark didn't even defend himself.
So eventually, Clint stopped trying. Clint packed his bags and left alongside Natasha. Bruce left soon after, with only a few parting words. From what Clint had heard, Steve had left Stark Tower without any words. Just packed his bags, took his things, and left Stark in the dust.
Clint had heard word of Stark's downward spiral from there. Drinking, not going outside - what?
It wasn't like Clint actually cared, right?
So in the end, Clint watched with cold eyes as a plain-looking woman checked over Stark's condition. Why the hell had Phil decided that the actual Avengers (not just a consultant or a hero who puts the lives of innocents on the line) had to stay here?
Clint caught a glimpse of Natasha as she left the room, her hand holding her cell phone.
After a few moments, she returned, looking frustrated. Clint caught her eye and she shook her head. They still didn't know what was wrong with their host.
Stark clearly had problems.
And no, Clint was totally not worried.
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t.b.c.