



Quark grasps Pel’s arm, a hand on her jacket. “I probably could use some help during these negotiations,” he says, looking nervous and straightening his jacket.
“I accept,” Pel says.
“Good.”
“Then we’re partners.”
“Not quite,” Quark leans in, “I don’t need a partner; I need an assistant.”
Pel appears to consider this. “Alright, but I get twenty-five percent of everything you make.” She leans in aggressively.
“Fifteen.”
“Twenty.”
“Done.”-Quark practically swoons as he closes the deal. Pel nods.
“But, brother,” Rom says, trying to catch Quark’s attention, “What can I do to help?” (Pel preens.)
“You want to help?”–Quark takes the serving tray from Pel’s hands–“Table six is waiting.”
A disgruntled Rom takes the tray and walks away.
Quark beams at Pel, then grasps her shoulders celebratorily. He turns away to fix more drinks. Pel nods again, rubbing her pants’ legs and smiling. She swallows and gazes at him.Pel + Quark, “Rules of Acquisition”