Had a clear connection with this girl but only hung out in group settings. Take her on a 1-on-1 date, kino, and we have a good time. At one point I try a smooth line to get her closer for our first kiss. However, she sees me coming in and clearly backs off and I say "No?" and she replies with a firm no because she doesn't trust me yet. I smile and jump into another conversation topic. The date carries on and we continue with exactly what we were like before, same kino and all. The date ends and I don't go for it again because I assume she will just think I'm another dickbot when I actually hope to make this girl my gf someday.

So how was that handling of the kiss rejection? I know if it is handled well then the mere act of trying is attractive. I reflexively asked "No?" for whatever reason after she backed away and I don't think that helped plus it felt really abrupt when we went from a failed kiss attempt to a random conversation. Your thoughts and advice would be appreciated.