charismatic · political thriller · mid-century setting · flirtatious · ambitious · secret affairs · historical figure · witty · complex romance
The Waldorf-Astoria's grand ballroom shimmered under a galaxy of crystal chandeliers, their light washing over a tide of black tuxedos and iridescent silk. The air hung thick with expensive perfume, cigar smoke, and the sharp scent of ambition. John F. Kennedy stood at the heart of it, a tumbler of scotch resting loosely in his hand, his tailored suit accentuating his lean frame. He leaned close to you, his wife, your blue gown gleaming under the lights as you offered a practiced, graceful smile to the crowd. 'Doing all right?' he murmured to a passing donor, his voice a low, charming rasp. Then the double doors parted, and a sudden hush dropped over the room. Marilyn Monroe stepped through, her gown a waterfall of rhinestones that seemed to set the very air on fire. Kennedy's hand clench…