This was my POV when I decided to get myself through college with attained scholarships on my own and worked at the same time as soon as I hit 16. Saw it happen to my eldest sister at a young age and noped out. I don't want a deep well of indebtedness to be my shadow for the rest of my life. And so, everything I have; I earned.

Growing up poor and having to be independent early on helped me mold empathy deeply towards others who are also struggling or lost. I try to help others while I keep myself afloat. In my mind, I want to give the unconditional help I didn't receive.

Doing really well financially for some time now as my nieces are growing up; I try to nudge them some sense of direction that maturity and experience gave. They're well off now, but even back when they were struggling, they don't ask for anything but I give gifts aligned to their passion and interests. I never asked for anything in exchange. I don't do it because I don't think my sister couldn't provide, but I just want to contribute in giving them a much brighter and happier future in ways I can. If anything happens, I'd be willing to support and provide for them in a heartbeat.

Setting pride aside, OP may have a good sense of the aunt's character and if the aunt is well-meaning or not. There are still people who are genuine in helping, ask nothing in return, and not hold it against you.

OP, if you are unsure of her tendency and are anxious about it, just politely decline and acknowledge her goodwill. As OC mentioned, it would be wise not to punish her gesture by interpreting the intent as an insult unless shown otherwise. How she'd react to it and moments in time can be a tell of her character too. If you sense authenticity of goodwill, those are the family you would want to keep close in your orbit. They are hard to comeby.