In 2007, Prince William ended his relationship with Kate Middleton via a phone call, a move that reportedly left Middleton devastated. Royal author Christopher Andersen, in his book "Kate!," claims that William subsequently "came crawling back" to Middleton after a six-week separation.
According to Andersen's account, William, then 25, cited his youth and unwillingness to commit as reasons for the breakup. He also expressed concerns that their relationship put Middleton's safety at risk, particularly if she lacked royal protection when he was not present. Andersen suggests that William's parents, Charles and Camilla, may have influenced his decision, urging him to either propose or end the relationship definitively to spare Middleton further suffering.
Middleton's colleagues reportedly overheard her tearful pleas as William ended the relationship. Andersen described Middleton as "crushed" and that the breakup was "completely out of the blue," coming at a time when many believed an engagement was imminent.
Following the split, Middleton, with guidance from her mother Carole, adopted a strategic approach to win William back. She reportedly embraced her independence, adopted a new fitness regimen, and re-entered London's social scene, often photographed with other young men and participating in activities like rowing. This public display of a revitalized social life, including a reported closeness with heir Sir Henry Ropner, is said to have made William realize his mistake.
Andersen recounts that William experienced "drunken sprees" following the breakup and expressed his freedom, but within six weeks, he sought reconciliation. The author posits that the separation served as a "wake-up call" for William, prompting him to recognize Middleton as the "love of his life" and a suitable partner for building a future.
A pivotal moment in their reconciliation is described as a party hosted by mutual friend Sam Waley-Cohen. Both William and Middleton attended, reportedly dressed in themed costumes. Guests observed that despite the intervening months, their connection remained evident, and they spent a significant portion of the evening in deep conversation.
During this private discussion, William reportedly articulated his fears of commitment and the pressures of his royal role. Middleton, still in love with him, was understanding of the challenges he faced. Their romance was rekindled in the summer of 2007.
Three years later, in 2010, Prince William and Kate Middleton announced their engagement, followed by their wedding in 2011. The couple now has three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.