.png)
Prince William and Princess Kate may now be regarded as one of the most cherished royal couples, having been married for 14 years and still going strong, but their fairytale almost took a different path.
Long before their stunning 2011 wedding at Westminster Abbey, the royal couple faced a major challenge.
The couple, who met and fell in love as students at the University of St Andrews, parted briefly in April 2007 as life after university pushed them in different ways.
Kate Middleton was breaking into the London fashion scene at the time, working for the brand Jigsaw and fast earning a reputation for her exquisite taste.
Meanwhile, William had immersed himself in his military training, coping with the demands of royal life and rising public expectations.
With engagement rumors circulating and the media attention growing, the young prince found himself at a crossroads.
In a painful 30-minute phone chat, William dissolved the relationship, leaving Kate distraught and the future of their romance unknown.
Following their unexpected 2007 breakup, a distraught Kate Middleton was allowed a week of compassionate leave from her job, while Prince William, suddenly single, was seen partying with pals and exclaiming, "I'm free!" during a riotous night out at Mahiki nightclub in Mayfair.
The dramatic phase in the royal love story is chronicled in royal specialist Robert Jobson's book Catherine, The Princess of Wales: The Biography.
According to the book, as William was venting his frustrations, Mary was quietly gathering her composure and planning the most beautiful retort.
Rather than languish in sadness, the future Queen stepped out in luxury, frequently accompanied by her sister Pippa Middleton.
With her typical composure and a new, confident edge, The Princess Wales rapidly became the focal point of the London social scene, attracting the attention of numerous suitors, including shipping heir Sir Henry Ropner.
As Kate accepted single life with grace and polish, William, at 24, began to grasp the importance of his decision.
When the two met at a gathering held by mutual friend Sam Waley-Cohen in June, they were spotted deep in discussion for hours. It was the tipping point.
Eager not to lose Kate again, William quickly asked her to a fun party at his Dorset army barracks with the cheeky theme "Freakin' Naughty."
The two were soon formally reunited, and their restored affection led them to their royal destiny.
