Ethan Carter was a 22-year-old with an easy smile and a curious spirit. Having recently graduated from college with a degree in finance, he was eager to carve out his own path, yet still found comfort in the familiar rhythms of his hometown. His auburn hair was often tousled from running his fingers through it absentmindedly, and his hazel eyes carried a flicker of both optimism and uncertainty.

One bright Monday morning, Ethan received a call from his Aunt Margaret. She was a seasoned realtor in her fifties, known in the community for her sharp eye and unwavering professionalism. Margaret was preparing to leave for a week-long vacation in the Caribbean, a rare chance for her to unwind after a busy spring season. Before she left, she asked Ethan if he could do her a favor: watch over her house while she was away.

“I trust you, Ethan,” she had said warmly. “Just keep an eye on things, water the plants, and make sure everything stays in order. It’s a beautiful home, and I want it to stay that way.”

Ethan hesitated for a moment, then nodded. “Of course, Aunt Margaret. I’d be happy to help.”

The next day, Ethan arrived at Margaret’s house---a sprawling, elegant property nestled in a quiet suburban neighborhood. The house was a testament to her success: a modern design with large windows that flooded the interior with natural light, a lush backyard with a well-maintained garden, and an inviting porch adorned with potted plants.

He unlocked the front door, stepping inside for the first time. The scent of fresh paint and polished wood greeted him. The living room was spacious, decorated in neutral tones with cozy armchairs and a roaring fireplace. A wall of bookshelves held a collection of novels, travel guides, and family albums. The kitchen was spotless, with gleaming appliances and a bowl of fresh fruit on the counter.

Ethan wandered through the house, taking in the details. The bedrooms were tastefully decorated, each with its own personality---some with framed photographs, others with artwork he suspected Margaret had collected during her travels. The bathrooms were immaculate, and the basement was filled with exercise equipment and a small home office.

He set his overnight bag on the guest bed in Margaret’s spare room, which overlooked the backyard. The room was cozy, with soft bedding and a window seat that offered a view of the garden. Ethan took a deep breath, feeling a mixture of excitement and a little nervousness. This was his first time looking after such a large, beautiful house, and he wanted to do right by his aunt.

After unpacking, Ethan explored a little more---checking the locks, testing the appliances, and familiarizing himself with the house’s routines. He made a mental note to water the plants in the morning and to keep the doors locked at night. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow through the windows, Ethan finally settled into his new temporary home.

He sat on the porch with a glass of water, looking out over the tranquil neighborhood. The house felt different from his apartment---more substantial, more alive with history and purpose. He felt a quiet sense of responsibility settle over him, knowing that he was now the guardian of his aunt’s cherished sanctuary.

With a slight smile, Ethan leaned back in the rocking chair, gazing up at the starry sky. Tomorrow would be a new start---an adventure in his own little corner of the world, even if just for a week.

As Ethan wandered through Margaret’s tastefully decorated living room, something caught his eye on a small side table beside a leather armchair. An old, leather-bound book with a slightly frayed spine sat prominently among a stack of magazines and papers. Its cover was plain, with gold lettering that read: "Techniques to Success."

Curious, Ethan reached out and carefully opened the book. The pages were yellowed with age, but the ink was clear and crisp. It wasn’t a typical realtor’s manual; rather, it seemed to be a guide meant for all professionals---an old classic, perhaps from Margaret’s early days.

He leafed through the pages, noting that the advice was timeless: strategies for confidence, communication, and, notably, appearance. One chapter was titled "The Power of Professional Appearance." Ethan read aloud softly to himself:

"A person should always look and act professionally at all times. Opportunities are always around the corner, waiting for the right moment to present themselves."

He paused, reflecting on Margaret’s polished demeanor. Even in casual settings, she always looked impeccable---her tailored dresses, crisp jackets, and perfectly coordinated accessories. Ethan remembered how she’d always step into a room with a confident smile, her posture upright, her attire sharp and deliberate.

A sudden curiosity sparked within him. How many suits and jacketed dresses did Margaret own? He wondered if she kept a collection of them---each one meticulously stored in her closet, ready for any occasion.

With a chuckle, Ethan decided to find out. He stood up and wandered toward her closet, which was a large, walk-in space filled with neatly hung garments. He looked at the rows of suits, blazers, and dresses---each piece carefully arranged by color and style.

His estimate: there must be at least a couple hundred items.

He ran his fingers along the fabric, admiring the variety---silk blouses, tailored trousers, elegant jackets, and a parade of dresses in different cuts and shades. Margaret had always been the epitome of professionalism, even at casual family gatherings. Her wardrobe was a testament to her dedication to her craft and her personal presentation.

Ethan’s mind drifted back to the advice in the book. The emphasis on appearance and demeanor was clear---success often hinged on the image one projected. It wasn’t just about looking good; it was about projecting confidence, competence, and readiness to seize opportunities at any moment.