Duchess Catherine had to show staying power before she was finally allowed to step in front of the altar with Prince William. On the way to marital happiness that continues to this day, Duchess Camilla turned out to be the most important advisor.
Duchess Catherine, 38, didn't take much time to conquer the heart of Prince William, 38. But it is Duchess Camilla, 73, who gave her advice at an early age on how to keep Queen Elizabeth's 94 grandson in the long term. Williams' stepmother is said to have already taken on her role as close confidante of the young woman from a middle-class family when the entrepreneur's daughter and the Royal's at university start dating.
Duchess Catherine: Camilla's advice is tricky
In the new book "Battle of Brothers: William, Harry and the Inside Story of a Family in Tumult," writer Robert Lacey reports: "Camilla entrusted Kate with the secret of keeping a busy prince: Fit your schedule – well, basically your whole life – at his. "
Apparently good advice, but it is difficult to implement after graduation at the latest. During their time together in St. Andrews, the young couple enjoyed their love, unmolested by royal obligations and great media interest. That will change after their academic career ends. The seriousness of blue-blooded life catches up with William.
"Waity Katie" has a plan
The Queen relies on the future heir to the throne and immediately hires him in the "company": A first visit abroad to New Zealand, then training at the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst and the usual annual appointments for the royal family.
And Kate Middleton? She is waiting. A circumstance that earned her the derisive nickname "Waity Katie" in the British press. A plan has to be found in order not to lose those who are dear to the heart to the royal circus. "While Kate's mid- to long-term goal was fairly simple – handcuffing William to the altar – she had to develop her own independent career path as a disguise first," explains Lacey. "In no way could it have helped Mrs. Middleton appear a little needy – and of course there was the ultimate unthinkable possibility that she would end up being abandoned!"
Kate goes her own way
Kate's tactics paid off in the end, while Camilla's theory is probably only really coming into play today. Her decision to make herself scarce and go her own way instead of moping up at home impressed William. Especially during a relationship break, the royal seems to realize what he's missing out on when he doesn't have this woman by his side. The wedding bells will ring on April 29, 2011, ten years after they first met at university.
Today, Catherine's life actually revolves around William, their children and royal duties. But as the Duchess of Cambridge, the 38-year-old has now created her own profile – and in the meantime often steals the show from her husband.
Sources used: The Sun, Robert Lacey: "Battle of Brothers: William, Harry an the Inside Story of a Family in Tumult"
This article originally appeared on Gala.de.