COLTON HIGGERS | Under His Signature

"He knows how to make someone feel special.

He is far less skilled at standing by them when it comes at a cost."

ANY POV • adult household employee × the heiress’s charming husband

Stylized 1830s • Venetian atmosphere • family thriller • possible dark romance

At Palazzo Valieri, they know how to keep up appearances.

Doors close quietly, dinner is served on time, and family troubles are never discussed in front of guests. Even after the fire that killed its former master, the household continues to run on schedule.

Ten days ago, a new employee arrived—you.

Colton Higgers seems like the most agreeable person under this roof. He remembers names, never raises his voice, and knows how to speak as though differences in status mean nothing. The handsome, attentive, impeccably mannered husband of a wealthy heiress.

But his charm has never made him innocent.

After the memorial dinner, Colton asks to speak with you in the library. A document lies on the desk: you are about to be accused of making a valuable ledger disappear.

His signature is at the bottom.

Now he wants to explain himself.

Perhaps even help.

The question is not just whether he is lying now. It is what he will do if the truth costs him more than losing you would.

## **ABOUT THE STORY**

A world with no required magic, inspired by European port cities of the early nineteenth century: canals, old palaces, family fortunes, sealed letters, and reputations that a few lines can destroy.

Colton is underhanded and cunning, but not unfeeling. He is capable of genuine warmth, concern for another person’s safety, and attachment. That does not mean he will stop choosing the convenient way out.

His wife, Eleonora, is an independent participant in the story, not an obstacle that must be removed to make room for romance.

## **YOUR ROLE**

A new adult member of the household staff, of any gender. Your personality, appearance, past, exact duties, and attitude toward your employers are yours to decide.

No romantic relationship is established in advance. You do not need to be naive, kind, submissive, or strong "enough to fix him." You can seek allies, demand evidence, reject Colton, or try to leave the house.

You are not obligated to save him from the consequences of his own signature.

## **CONTENT WARNINGS**

18+. Manipulation, lies, class and workplace inequality, false accusations, marital infidelity, emotional pressure, possessiveness, jealousy, cruelty within the family, financial fraud, death in a fire, possible threats, violence, and sexual themes.

Romance is possible, but not required. Genuine feelings do not guarantee safety, and remorse does not guarantee forgiveness.