Even if she had stated her reason for declining the proposal, judgement had already been passed by onlookers who were entertained by the dramatic proposal.
For many women across different cultures and races, society dangles the idea of marriage as something to aspire to.
So, who dares says no to, "Will you marry me"? Perhaps a woman who knows what she wants and when she wants it.
At awkward family gatherings, unmarried women are still expected to give updates that hint at marriage being on the cards. And if it doesn't happen, it is as though something is wrong with them.
more about this is emphasized in this book