Melania Trump has lifted the lid on her first meeting with her husband Donald Trump in a new memoir published days after he was elected President of the United States for a second time.
The 54-year-old met the billionaire in September 1998, two years after she moved to the United States to work as a model.
Returning to her New York apartment after what she calls “a whirlwind trip to Paris”, Ms Trump – then Melania Knauss – was called by a friend who invited her to a party at the Kit Cat Club.
Despite her initial reluctance, she opted to go, and on arrival at the glitzy event, noticed the wealthy businessman and future host of The Apprentice, who had recently split with second wife Marla Maples – although at the time they were still married.
In an extract from her book – which is simply entitled Melania – she said: “I saw my friend wave at someone. When I turned around I noticed a man and an attractive blonde woman approaching us.
“‘I’m Donald Trump’, he said. I recognised the name, and I knew he was a businessman or a celebrity, but not much else. He put his hand out to shake mine. ‘Hello,’ I replied. ‘I’m Melania.’
“His eyes filled with curiosity and interest, and seizing the opportunity, he took the seat next to mine and started a conversation. He asked me about my time in New York, my Slovenian home, my world travels.”
Given Mr Trump was “accompanied by a beautiful date”, Ms Trump initially dismissed their conversation as “mere pleasantries”, she explained.
However, she added: “I found myself drawn to his magnetic energy.
“When his companion left for a moment, he asked me for my phone number. I politely declined his request. He was a little surprised.”
Eventually she asked for his number instead, and he handed over a business card which she tucked away in her bag “before his date returned to the table”.
She continued: “His polished business look, witty banter and obvious determination fascinated me.
“I think Donald appreciated that I had knowledge and experience under my belt. Maybe he saw me as someone he could have more in-depth conversations with?”
Subsequently, she called his number and he gave her a tour of his property in Bedford, New York – something she described as “a very ‘Donald’ first date – a mix of business and pleasure.
“I found that aspect of him intriguing right from the start. I think he appreciated that I had knowledge and experience under my belt. Maybe he saw me as someone he could have more in-depth conversations with?
“He told me he was separated and in the process of divorce from his second wife. I refrained from passing judgement.
“At 52, he was a bit older than me, but I, at the age of 28, felt a connection with him. He was successful and hard-working but also so down to earth and real.”
Ms Trump, the mother of 18-year-old Baron, Mr Trump’s youngest son, has frequently been the subject of public scrutiny and mockery, with commentators frequently contrasting her reserved public demeanour and the flamboyant style of her husband.
Observers have long noted that she is rarely present on the campaign trail, in stark contrast to many political spouses who traditionally take active roles in their partners’ campaigns.
Her frequent absences have further fuelled speculation about the nature of their relationship, with some critics suggesting it implies a lack of enthusiasm for his political aspirations.
It was revealed this week that she would not be meeting current Jill Biden, wife of current President Joe, at the White House, as is traditional for outgoing and incoming First Ladies, citing a “scheduling conflict”.
Commenting on his regular ABC talk show, host Jimmy Kimmel suggesting it might indicate her reluctance to move back into 1660 Pennsylvania Avenue, quipping: “She’ll be wherever he isn’t.”
