Melania Trump reveals how Donald proposed as she lashes out at 'gold digger' claims

Melania Trump says her heart was 'ready to burst' when Donald proposed to her.

The Slovenian ex-model has today , titled Melania, which offers a rare insight into her life as America's former First Lady and 's wife. In the book, she details her relationship with the former US president, from their first meeting to their engagement and time in the White House.

Back in 2004, Donald - who had been divorced twice and had four children - asked for Melania's hand in marriage. The pair were dressed up and ready to attend the when he surprised her with a "beautiful emerald-cut diamond ring set in platinum" and whispered: "I love you."

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Melania writes how Donald then said, "I want to spend the rest of my life with you", and she accepted the proposal. She adds: "My heart was ready to burst." While they received little attention at the gala, the media quickly caught on and news of the businessman's "new apprentice" soon spread.

Elsewhere in the book, Melania explains how they first met - at a party where Donald took another "beautiful date". She claims she recognised his name, but not his face, and the money mogul asked for her number before leaving the event. But she "politely declined" and instead asked for his.

The former model gushes over Donald's tender side in her tome, revealing how he regularly calls her personal doctor to check on her health, and that they share a "love for and Elton John". She also addresses their 24-year age gap and how she has been labelled a "gold digger" in the public eye.

Melania slams the rumours as "baseless accusations" and daringly writes that she "could have easily captured the attention of numerous celebrities" if she did not desire a future and family with Trump. She also adds that she has made her own wealth through modelling and skincare and jewellery businesses.

The mother-of-one, who shares son Barron with Donald, writes how her opinions do not always align with his controversial and outspoken beliefs and she does not agree with all of his decisions. For example, she made clear the divide between her and her husband's stance on abortion.

While Trump's Republican Party is typically "pro-life", Melania voiced her support for pro-choice rights. She believes the "cultural stigma associated with abortion must be lifted" and believes the slogan 'my body, my choice' aligns with "personal freedom" and "the right to choose life".

• Melania Trump's memoir , published by Skyhorse, is available to buy in bookstores now.

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