The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have weathered a challenging year that would test the resilience of any marriage. With Kate Middleton now in remission following her heart-wrenching cancer diagnosis last year and gradually returning to royal duties, the future looks brighter for her and husband Prince William, who has been her unwavering pillar of support.
Tomorrow, the royal couple will celebrate a joyous milestone in their stronger-than-ever bond - 14 years of matrimony with a two-day visit to the breathtaking Isle of Mull. Here, they will reside in a self-catering cottage and fulfill a series of engagements.
In recent times, they have had to navigate the repercussions of Prince Harry and Meghan’s dramatic departure from their royal roles, as well as adapting to their expanded responsibilities as Prince and Princess of Wales following the passing of the late Queen.
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Simultaneously, they strive to balance these duties with raising their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis - being hands-on parents involved in school runs and transporting the youngsters to their various activities and after-school sports clubs.
Former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond has delved into their marriage to understand what makes their partnership unique. She disclosed what has enabled them to steer through turbulent times and now appear even more robust than before, reports the Mirror.
She explained: “Their marriage is, I think, even stronger than before, and it was already a roaring success. I think they like each other. A lot. And that’s a whole different thing to loving one another - which, incidentally, they also do. A lot.
“What makes it work? I think theirs is a pretty equal partnership. They operate as a partnership and they have such a deep understanding of one another that they can communicate when they are out and about with just a look or a gesture. They seem sometimes to have private jokes that make them smile or nudge one another.
The couple’s love story stretches back more than two decades, dating back to 2001 when they first crossed paths as students at the University of St Andrews in Scotland. As freshers, both resided on campus in St Salvator’s hall of residence, later sharing a two-storey house with friends.
It was during this period that their affection for each other blossomed, with many attributing the slow development of William and Kate’s early romance as the secret to their enduring relationship.
Their separation was brief, however, as just months after news broke of their split, they rekindled their romance. Some speculate that the break up reinforced their genuine feelings for one another.
Reflecting on their engagement, Kate herself admitted that while she wasn’t very pleased about it, she believes the experience made her a “stronger person”.
Following their lavish wedding at Westminster Abbey, Kate embarked on her Royal duties which included high-profile public appearances, esteemed state events, and occasionally, demanding overseas tours. In the early stages of their marriage, the couple maintained a low profile when it came to public displays of affection, despite Kate once noting how “hugs were important”.
However, 14 years on, their joint outings often feature tender touches, adoring looks, and even sweet hand-holding.
Last year, the couple showcased their affectionate side in a deeply personal video marking the end of Kate’s cancer treatment, featuring William warmly embracing his wife on the beach and planting a kiss on her.
Earlier this year, they also shared a clip on their own social media platforms showing them walking hand-in-hand through a railway station, ready to catch the train home following a busy day of engagements in Wales.
Another thing they can also count on, especially during their public life, is their shared cheeky sense of humor and competitive nature. Kate is often seen laughing at her husband’s witty quips with the pair regularly heard gently teasing each other.
The actual day of their 14th wedding anniversary tomorrow (Tuesday, April 29) comes as they will spend the day carrying out engagements on the Isle of Mull. But even if celebrations are muted, Jennie Bond predicts Kate could still be in store for a special gift.
As their union progresses, it’s inevitable that they’ll face more challenges in the future. In the near term, a significant joint decision awaits them regarding where their eldest child and heir to the throne, Prince George, should attend school when he turns 13 next year.
Other immediate responsibilities include their philanthropic work with causes dear to them, such as William’s ambitious Homewards project aimed at ending homelessness, and Kate’s efforts to emphasize the significance of early childhood years. Not to mention, William’s increasing responsibilities as the future king.
On Saturday, he represented his father at Pope Francis' funeral.
However, another significant challenge will arise with their ultimate destiny - ascending to the throne as King and Queen. William has always known that he would one day become the head of state, and 14 years ago, on their wedding day, Kate’s future was similarly set in stone.
The King’s cancer diagnosis and ongoing treatment will undoubtedly be a concern for William and Kate, and the potential implications for their future roles.
But, together, they are strong. And their enduring love story continues to inspire many.