I always wondered that about Simon Tarses--and I'm glad you're addressing it!
And personally, I think Ezri and Bashir seem like a very natural couple. Their mutual respect is quite refreshing.
Oh...and the "Tomorrow Never Dies" toast--very appropriate for Bashir!
Just one minor nit--I think you're overusing italics a bit; it kinda reminds me of a comic book in that just about EVERY phrase has something in italics.