Melania-spotting: A Flotus intrigue in Washington

Elusive enigma: Melania preparing to depart the Capitol after the inauguration ceremonies in Washington DC on Jan 20. The US first lady has spent fewer than 14 days at the White House since her husband was inaugurated. — Photos: Doug Mills/The New York Times

THE lights never seem to be on and the shutters stay shut.

As the weeks pass by at the White House, the corner of the residence long used by first ladies remains dark, because this US first lady does not really live in Washington.