I'm getting a little frowny at characterizations where Natasha is so hard-assed and tough that Clint can't even air the slightest criticism without fearing for his life. Or she punches him. And conversely, that Clint has to tip-toe around her feelings at all times because he's so in love and she's so hair-trigger that he's constantly worrying about upsetting her.

Le sigh.

Relationship of equals, people, relationship of equals.

and while she tried to evade, using her words and not fists I might add, he gently insisted and she immediately sat down next to him and engaged. And I think I like that scenario much more.

Agreed. That's a much more (to my mind) interesting and functional dynamic.