[ That... wasn't a remotely convincing no at all, and it just peeves her that he tried to lie to her. Unfortunately, she has experience being plied with compliments in such a fashion, and that turned out not so bad in the end—so her tone is more exasperated than anything. ]

This artifice is wholly unnecessary. I have very little patience for cajolery, and I daresay most other women do as well, if that is your aim.

[ Surely this is how he treats all women, and not just her in particular... what a terrible thought. Here, she'll give him some free advice— ]

In truth, I preferred your first reaction, as that was far more honest.