Who gets to decide whether an escape-room team asks for a hint?

There were eleven minutes on the clock, and we'd spent fifteen rearranging the same six wooden tiles. When I reached for the hint button, my friend put his hand over it. 'Not on my record.'

Five of us had booked the room for a birthday. The staff had explained that we could request hints. We hadn't agreed to avoid them. Two players were now sitting on the bench, and the birthday guest said she'd like to see the next room before time ran out.

My friend said finishing with help wouldn't count. I pressed the button after he moved his hand. The clue got us past the tiles, but we still didn't finish. Outside, he said I'd spoiled the challenge and should have asked everyone first.

I think he should have asked before blocking it too. For another booking, is one person entitled to preserve a no-hint attempt, or should the group decide even if that changes the achievement someone hoped for?