Between US First Lady Melania Trump and her young black admirer

US First Lady Melania Trump charmed children and staff during a pre-Valentine’s Day visit to The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland, on Wednesday.

The First Lady joined young patients and their families for a festive session of arts and crafts, making Valentine’s Day cards, flower bouquets, and lanterns from construction paper. She encouraged the children to participate fully, smiling and telling them, “Don’t be shy.”

The highlight of the visit came when 11-year-old Marlon, the brother of a patient, delivered a cheeky compliment to the First Lady. His bold words earned him a laugh from Melania, who called him a “charmer” and jokingly warned the other children to “watch out” for the young Romeo.

Melania also spent time with Marlon’s brother, Donovan, who is undergoing treatment for acute myeloid leukemia. The First Lady and the children shared conversations about sports, dancing, and other interests. When asked if he liked dancing, Marlon joked about having “two left feet,” while Melania said she loves to dance but rarely finds the time.

During the visit, she also discussed her work with foster children and the President’s AI challenge, using the moment to remind the children about being cautious with technology. “It’s very positive, but you have to be vigilant. You cannot believe everything,” she said.

Melania offered advice about self-care, emphasizing the importance of exercise and taking care of oneself. “Take care of yourself. Exercise. That is critical,” she told the children.

The visit ended on a sweet note, with the children and the First Lady gathering around a dessert table decorated with mini cupcakes, jars of chocolates, and pink-and-red candies, leaving smiles all around during a heartwarming Valentine’s Day celebration.