The person who tried openly deserves kindness when the answer is no.

Saying what you want in front of someone is a small act of exposure, and it costs more than the person receiving it usually realises. Asking someone out, putting a name forward, showing the work: each of these hands over something that can be refused. The no is often unavoidable. How it is delivered decides whether the person stays willing to try again, with you or with anyone.

Give a clear answer promptly rather than letting it fade, and give it without a performance of reluctance or a list of faults. Thank them for asking. Plain, warm and quick is the version people can carry away without damage.