Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, reportedly experienced deep disappointment when Prince William decided against spending New Year with her early in their relationship, according to royal author Katie Nicholl.
In her book “The Making of a Modern Romance,” Nicholl reveals that Prince William had initially promised to ring in the New Year with Kate in 2006 but ultimately chose to remain with his family instead.
It is said that William had committed to observing Christmas at Sandringham, a tradition within the royal family, before heading to Kate’s family home for New Year celebrations.
Nicholl further asserts that Kate was left disheartened by her future husband’s change of heart, leading her to harbor concerns about the future of their relationship.
The situation escalated when Prince William reportedly called Kate on Boxing Day to communicate his change of plans, leaving her understandably unsettled.
Nicholl suggests that while the sudden alteration may have seemed insignificant, Kate’s apprehensions were not unfounded.
According to the author, William had been grappling with doubts and eventually sought guidance from his father and grandmother regarding his future with Kate.
Both advised him against rushing into any decisions, prompting the couple to briefly part ways in 2007.
Following their temporary split, rumors circulated that the Queen had expressed disappointment upon learning of the rift between William and Kate.
However, the couple soon reignited their romance and publicly displayed their affection by sharing a kiss at a party in Dorset.
Subsequently, Kate made an appearance at the concert for Diana at Wembley, commemorating the tenth anniversary of the Princess of Wales’s passing.
Their relationship progressed as Kate moved into William’s residence at Clarence House, fostering a renewed sense of intimacy between them.
Traditionally, Christmas arrangements for the Royal Family involve congregating at Sandringham in East Anglia.
Last year, however, circumstances deviated due to Covid-19 restrictions, prompting the Queen and the late Duke of Edinburgh to celebrate the holiday at Windsor Castle instead of Norfolk.
This year, the Queen has affirmed her intention to host Christmas festivities at the customary estate, raising questions about the participation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Amidst uncertainties surrounding holiday plans, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s attendance remains uncertain, considering their previous choice to spend Christmas in California.
The possibility of their presence, accompanied by Archie and Lilibet, remains undisclosed.
As the festive season approaches, the royal family anticipates a less tumultuous Christmas compared to previous years, with the Queen determined to reunite with her loved ones after last year’s disrupted celebrations due to the pandemic.
Despite concerns over the Queen’s health following a recent hospital stay, palace insiders affirm her unwavering commitment to hosting the family gathering at Sandringham.
Emphasizing the significance of being surrounded by loved ones, the Queen aims to recuperate fully in the forthcoming weeks.
Amidst evolving dynamics within the royal family, this year’s Christmas celebrations hold particular importance as the monarch endeavors to foster familial unity and festive cheer.