**Chapter 6: Teasing Cruelty**

The sun was setting over the estate, casting a warm orange glow over the gardens as Christian and Michelle strolled through the manicured lawns. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the sound of birds chirping in the distance. Michelle felt a sense of unease wash over her as Christian walked beside her, his eyes fixed on her profile. As they walked, Christian began to tease her, his words dripping with playful cruelty. "You know, Michelle, I've been thinking," he said, his voice low and husky. "I think it's time you learned how to dance." Michelle's heart sank as he steered her towards the garden's gazebo, where a string quartet was setting up their instruments. "I don't know how to dance," she said, trying to sound nonchalant. Christian chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "I'm sure you'll pick it up quickly," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "After all, you're a quick learner, aren't you?" Michelle felt a surge of anger at his words, but Christian just smiled and took her hand, pulling her into the gazebo. The music began, and Christian started to sway to the rhythm, his movements fluid and effortless. Michelle stumbled, her feet tangling in the steps. Christian laughed, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You're not even trying," he teased, his voice low and husky. Michelle felt a flush rise to her cheeks as she tried to follow his lead. But Christian was a demanding teacher, and he wouldn't let her get away with anything less than perfection. He pulled her closer, his hand on her waist, and Michelle felt a jolt of electricity run through her body. As they danced, Christian's touch sent shivers down her spine. She couldn't help but notice the way his eyes seemed to burn with intensity, the way his voice made her skin prickle with goosebumps. It was as if he was trying to get under her skin, to break down the barriers she had built around herself. The music ended, and Christian bowed low, his eyes never leaving hers. "You're a natural," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. Michelle felt a surge of frustration at his words, but Christian just smiled and took her hand, leading her out of the gazebo. As they walked back to the estate, Michelle couldn't help but feel like she was trapped in a game, a game she wasn't sure she wanted to play. But as she glanced over at Christian, she saw something in his eyes that gave her pause. It was a glimmer of curiosity, a hint that he was interested in getting to know her, really know her. And Michelle felt a spark of curiosity ignite within her, a desire to see what lay beneath Christian's tough exterior. As they approached the estate, Christian's hand on her waist sent shivers down her spine. Michelle knew she had to be careful, that she couldn't let her guard down around him. But as she looked into his eyes, she couldn't help but wonder what would happen if she did. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting the estate in a warm, golden light. Michelle felt a sense of trepidation wash over her as Christian led her towards the mansion. She knew that she was walking a tightrope, balancing her desire for freedom with her growing attraction to Christian. And as they stepped into the mansion, Michelle couldn't help but wonder what the future held for her, and whether she would be able to resist the teasing cruelty that Christian seemed to enjoy so much.