Marion “Mimi” Beardsley, a 19-year-old intern from Trenton, N.J., embarked on a journey to Washington, D.C. in the summer of 1962 to work at the White House without even applying for the position.

She had written an article about a notable alumna from her school, Miss Porter’s School, which led to a chance encounter with the president.

This unexpected opportunity marked the beginning of a controversial relationship that spanned over a year and a half, as detailed in the memoir “Once Upon a Secret: My Affair With President John F. Kennedy and Its Aftermath.”

Now at the age of 69, Beardsley unveils the intimate moments she shared with the beloved president.

The initial days at the White House left Beardsley captivated by its grandeur, where she was welcomed by Press Secretary Pierre Salinger and assigned tasks among the press office secretaries.

Despite starting with typical intern duties, her experience took a surprising turn when she received an invitation from David Powers, a special assistant to the president, to join a swim at the White House pool.

This casual encounter led to a private tour of the White House with President Kennedy, culminating in a clandestine moment in Mrs. Kennedy’s bedroom where their affair began discreetly.

As their relationship progressed, Beardsley found herself accompanying President Kennedy on official trips, including leisure cruises and visits to various states, where she was often the only young woman among prominent government officials.

Despite the glamour and excitement, she was mindful of the disparity in their positions and the unreciprocated nature of their love due to Kennedy’s presidential responsibilities.

Their interactions ranged from public appearances to private encounters, each revealing a different facet of their unconventional liaison.

Amidst the Cuban Missile Crisis, Beardsley vividly recalls being at the White House while tensions escalated, providing a stark contrast between the presidential discussions on crisis management and her obliviousness to the gravity of the situation.

Her presence during critical moments underscored the personal aspect of their relationship, offering a unique perspective on the president’s demeanor during times of national turmoil.

Their affair extended beyond the confines of the White House, with trips to Hollywood and Palm Springs showcasing a more playful yet complex dynamic between Beardsley and President Kennedy.

Despite the affectionate gestures and shared experiences, Beardsley reflects on instances where she witnessed a darker side of Kennedy, highlighting the complexities of their unconventional romance.

In the midst of their affair, Beardsley faced challenges such as a pregnancy scare, which shed light on the pragmatic measures taken to address sensitive issues discreetly.

The president’s confidante, David Powers, played a crucial role in facilitating their meetings and handling delicate matters, indicating the extent to which their relationship was shrouded in secrecy and practical considerations.

Their final encounter at the Carlyle Hotel in New York before Kennedy’s tragic assassination in Dallas marked the end of their clandestine affair.

Despite Beardsley’s impending marriage to another man, Kennedy expressed a desire to stay connected, hinting at the enduring impact of their relationship even as it came to a bittersweet conclusion.

The memoir encapsulates a chapter in American history intertwined with personal narratives, shedding light on the complexities of power, intimacy, and secrecy at the highest levels of government.