demurring

At first demurring, the little Chinese seemed mildly flattered at the interest provoked by this question.

After first demurring, Paul would of course agree (a psychotic nurse, I thought, could be very persuasive).

But, after first demurring, when she puts on the magnificent ring, and experiences Mr. Yee's love for her, she is overcome by emotion and breaks down and urges him twice to "Go, now."