There is some video that recuts that exchange a bit and adds some provocative music at specific moments, and I think that effectively changes the vibe to fit the romantic narrative. But the actual original scene just comes off to me as a kid scared of a potential bad guy.
He always seemed more nervous by the fact he (accurately) believes Garak is a spy, which fascinates him, but also was shocked that said spy was trying to get information from him which boosted his ego and played to his interests. Like a kid having their own hero approach them and not the other way around.
Rewatch the opening scene from season 1’s “Past Prologue” where Garak first sits with Bashir. There’s flirty subtext throughout.
There is some video that recuts that exchange a bit and adds some provocative music at specific moments, and I think that effectively changes the vibe to fit the romantic narrative. But the actual original scene just comes off to me as a kid scared of a potential bad guy.
He always seemed more nervous by the fact he (accurately) believes Garak is a spy, which fascinates him, but also was shocked that said spy was trying to get information from him which boosted his ego and played to his interests. Like a kid having their own hero approach them and not the other way around.