DEEP SPACE NINE: "The Assign... " - REV. 09/12/96 - ACT ONE     10.

6    CONTINUED:	(2)

					KEIKO 
			Miles! Don't be rude.

	Keiko crosses to Bashir, who extends the plant. Keiko 
	takes it in one hand. Over Keiko's shoulder, Bashir 
	catches O'Brien's gaze.

					BASHIR
				(silently mouths) 
			Did you tell her?

	O'Brien nods stiffly. Keiko looks lovingly at the 
	plant.

					KEIKO 
			Bajoran spiny basil... how 
			thoughtful!

	She sets it down, then adjusts it.

					BASHIR 
			It's the least I can do after...

					KEIKO
			It's all right, Julian. I forgive 
			you.
				(a beat) 
			Now, you are going to make it to 
			the party tonight, aren't you?

					BASHIR 
			I'll be here.
				(smiles) 
			I guess it's not a surprise 
			anymore.

					KEIKO
				(chagrinned) 
			I can't believe I did that.
				(to O'Brien) 
			I arranged a birthday dinner for 
			you tonight. But I wanted it to 
			be a surprise.

					O'BRIEN
			It's okay.
				(pointed) 
			I don't like surprises.