“uh?”

Elton had not expected Maria to turn down the rare chance to participate in the auction

Was it because Maria felt too embarrassed to back down now?

Thinking about this, Elton said, “If you change your mind, just come to me. I'll be waiting for you at the auction venue's entrance! But I'1L just be waiting for you for five minute:

This was Maria's last chance. Assuming that Maria was just trying to save face, Elton looked forward to her begging Later.