Prince William and Princess Kate may now be celebrated as one of the most beloved royal couples married for 14 years and still going strong but their fairytale almost took a very different turn.
Long before their spectacular 2011 wedding at Westminster Abbey, the royal romance faced a serious test.
The pair, who met and fell in love as students at the University of St Andrews, briefly split in April 2007 as life after university pulled them in different directions.
At the time, Kate Middleton was carving out her path in London’s fashion world, working for the brand Jigsaw and quickly gaining a reputation for her impeccable style.
Meanwhile, William had immersed himself in his military training, grappling with the pressures of royal life and growing public expectations.
With engagement rumours swirling and the media spotlight intensifying, the young prince found himself at a crossroads.
In a difficult 30 minute phone call, William ended the relationship, leaving Kate heartbroken and the future of their romance uncertain.
After their shocking 2007 split, a heartbroken Kate Middleton was granted a week of compassionate leave from her job while Prince William, newly single, was spotted partying with friends shouting, "I’m free!" during a raucous night out at Mahiki nightclub in Mayfair.
The dramatic chapter in the royal love story is detailed in royal expert Robert Jobson’s Catherine, The Princess of Wales: The Biography.
According to the book, while William was letting off steam, she was quietly regaining her composure and plotting the most graceful comeback.
Rather than wallow in heartbreak, the future Queen stepped out in style, often alongside her sister Pippa Middleton.
With her signature poise and a new, confident edge, The Princess Wales quickly became the centre of attention on the London social scene, catching the eyes of several suitors including shipping heir Sir Henry Ropner.
As Kate embraced single life with poise and polish, William then just 24 began to realise the gravity of his decision.
When the two crossed paths at a party hosted by mutual friend Sam Waley-Cohen that June, they were seen deep in conversation for hours. It was the turning point.
Eager not to let her slip away again, William soon invited Kate to a giggly party at his Dorset army barracks with the cheeky theme, "Freakin’ Naughty."
The two were soon officially back together, and the rekindled romance set them on the path to their royal destiny.