Title: A Change of Plan
Fandom: Spooks (MI5)
Rating: G
Length: 404 words
Summary: Lucas has annoyed Harry again

All heads shot up as Harry Pearce burst out of his office and then, when they observed the thunderous expression on his face, hastily returned to what they had been involved with.

“I have just had the Minister on the phone,” Harry said.  “The Deputy Head of the German Embassy has informed him that she will no longer be attending his garden party as, and I quote, ‘She’s received a better offer.’  I don’t suppose any of you happen to know anything about this?”

Lucas looked up.  “Oops!”

“Oops, is that all you can say?”

“I didn’t mean that she should necessarily use those exact words when declining his very kind invitation.”

“But you did suggest she didn’t go.”

“Yes, but there was a good reason.”

“There better be.  And not just to partner you in a mixed double’s tennis match.”

“Now there’s a thought,” Lucas began.  Harry’s expression made him rethink.  “Information led us to believe that she could be in danger at that party, either from the Minister himself, or some of his cohort.”

“Yes, I’m aware of that.  So we warn her and arrange, in conjunction with the Germans, extra protection.”

“Ordinarily I’d agree.  But she’s just found out she’s pregnant, and I think that changes the risk.  I presume you agree.”

“What do you think, Ros?” Harry asked.

“It’s her choice, but Lucas said she was a bit nervous when they discussed it and apart from her personal safety, if she is worried it will show and we don’t want to risk that.”

“Fair comment.  So what’s the plan?”

“We find someone to replace her.  One of the latest arrivals at their embassy has all the hallmarks of being an agent.  However, the Minister won’t know that yet.  Let her go in place of the Deputy Minister.  I’m sure your charm will manage to arrange it.”

***

Late in the afternoon of the day of garden party, Harry again came out of his office.  This time he was smiling.

“I have just had the Minister on the phone,” he said.  “It turned out that our replacement guest from the German Embassy didn’t take kindly to having a gun pointed at her and broke the gunman’s arm.  The Minister demanded to know why I hadn’t known the guest was an agent and therefore warned them so this so of thing wouldn’t have happened.”

“What did you say to that?” Ros asked.

“Oops!”