In a revealing excerpt from a new biography of the Princess of Wales, Robert Jobson delves into the tumultuous relationship between Kate Middleton and Prince William, highlighting the moment that led to their breakup over a brief phone call.
The couple’s romance began during their university years at St Andrews, where they shared a close bond. However, in 2007, William, then the world’s most eligible bachelor, decided it was time to end their relationship. He felt overwhelmed by the prospect of commitment and opted for a night out with friends at Mahiki nightclub in Mayfair to celebrate his newfound freedom. Amidst the revelry, he was heard exclaiming, “I’m free!” while engaging in drunken antics that would later reach Kate’s ears, marking a painful end to their years together.
Following the split, Kate was often seen out and about with her sister Pippa, trying to navigate the public scrutiny that came with being William’s ex-girlfriend. Rumors swirled about William’s affections for another woman, Isabella Anstruther-Gough-Calthorpe, but she was reportedly uninterested in a royal relationship. Despite this, William’s attempts to woo Isabella were unsuccessful, leaving many to wonder if he would return to Kate.
Kate’s background is often overshadowed by her royal status. Born in Jordan, she was encouraged to learn Arabic at a young age. The Middletons returned to the UK when she was three, and she later attended prestigious schools, where she excelled academically and athletically. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of purpose, particularly regarding the importance of early childhood development.
As William and Kate’s relationship progressed, they faced the challenges of royal life. William’s military training and the pressures of public life weighed heavily on their romance. By early 2007, as speculation about an engagement grew, William unexpectedly called Kate to suggest they take a break. In a heart-wrenching 30-minute conversation, he expressed the need for space, leaving Kate devastated and questioning the future of their relationship.
In the aftermath of the breakup, Kate sought solace in the company of friends, enjoying nights out and embracing a more vibrant social life. The media dubbed her the “Sizzler Sisters” alongside Pippa, as they were frequently photographed leaving nightclubs. Meanwhile, William, now an army officer, found it difficult to move on, especially as he saw images of Kate enjoying herself without him.
Their paths crossed again at a fancy-dress party hosted by a mutual friend, where the chemistry between them reignited. Dressed as a nurse, Kate caught William’s eye, and they spent the evening reconnecting. Their reconciliation was initially kept under wraps, but soon enough, the press began to notice their renewed closeness.
As they navigated their relationship, they took a romantic holiday together in the Seychelles, where they made a secret pact to marry in the future. However, the pressures of royal life continued to loom over them. In 2010, William finally proposed during a holiday in Kenya, and Kate’s joy was evident as she accepted.
Their wedding on April 29, 2011, was a grand affair watched by millions worldwide. The couple’s journey from university sweethearts to a royal marriage was marked by ups and downs, but their love ultimately prevailed.
In the years that followed, Kate embraced her role as the Duchess of Cambridge, championing various causes and becoming a beloved figure in the royal family. The couple’s story serves as a testament to the resilience of love, even in the face of challenges and public scrutiny.
Source: Robert Jobson, “Catherine, the Princess of Wales: The Biography”
