There’s signs outside of just Handler’s odd line delivery in Safe and Sound. Look at what he gives us at the end of every level.
A cupcake and a bottle of champagne with a champagne flute.
Now let’s look at what Juniper leaves for Phoenix when trying to convince them he’s their handler.
A slice of cake and a glass of wine. It’s so close, but not quite right. He knew that Phoenix usually was given cake and alcohol, but not the little things. Why would John go out of his way to get champagne? He’s got cellars full of wine, and it’s not like that small detail will make much difference.
Honestly, when I first played I remember thinking wow that’s a lotta cake- because that is a huge slice of cake. You immediately know something’s off… but not what.
And the sandwich just feels like overcompensating. Handler has been shown leaving Phoenix sandwiches all through the first game, but not as much in the second one. It’s a safety net.
“See? I’m you handler, I even got you a sandwich!”
Leave your true identities at the door and please, join me in a night of enjoyment!"
Welcome, welcome! John Juniper has invited you all to a party in celebration. If you would be so kind as to mark your attendance with Gibson at the door- attendees will not be announced by name (so as to not spoil the fun). Look sharp, trade stories, keep up the facade of anonymity, but above all- have fun!
Headcanon: The agency is extremely strict with the dress code on their top agents, to avoid any kind of identification Pheonix hasn’t worn anything but the formal shirt and tie for a WHILE
maybe one day there will be an official ieytd comic series and its one of those side comic series' that are like little background stories that go more in depth with characters and its just cute or it could ruin ur life
btw the phoenix interpretation here uses all pronouns, usually he/they
Reginald: no going on side missions. You only do the main mission. Do you understand?
Agent Phoenix: of course. Get in, hack the computer, get out.
Reginald: great!
*3 hours later*
Agent Phoenix: *stuck behind the drywall in Zor's meeting room* hey, I'm supposed to be stopping your evil plan and everything but are you aware that mice are chewing away at your drywall and it's becoming dislodged? I think I can fix it.
Zor: *who was just going over their evil Scheme with the other villains* ... Phoenix so help me I will have Hivemind send bees in after you.
Agent Phoenix: I'M OFFERING TO HELP YOU! IT'S DRIVING ME INSANE! DO YOU NOT SEE HOW CROOKED IT IS?! WHO EVEN INSTALLED THIS?!
GEMINEYE
fellas, is it gay to die by the side of your arch nemesis ?
come get your food, tragic Pheonix X John Juniper enjoyer
bonus bc this man is so pathetic i love him ..
also if you're wondering, "but frankie, wasnt Prism your wife already? " bold of you to think i cant make john my wife too ..