Why Prince William and Kate Middleton’s Recent Appearances Are a Good Sign for the Royal Family’s Future

Kate Middleton and Prince William have ramped up their royal appearances this month after the princess spent much of the year out of the spotlight amid her cancer battle. After reports shared that Middleton is preparing to be queen sooner rather than later, royal editor Richard Eden said that the couple's engagements this month offer a "glimpse into the future."

Earlier this month, Middleton hosted her annual "Together at Christmas" carol service at Westminster Abbey, which Eden called "the centerpiece of the royal week" during an episode of Mail+'s "Palace Confidential." In addition to Middleton's successful holiday event, William has also been taking on more responsibilities. The prince even had a one-on-one meeting with future U.S. President Donald Trump during the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral.

"Then we have had Prince William meeting the next president and carrying out those engagements overseas," Eden said, before explaining how Princess Kate and Prince William's increase in engagements is a good sign for the future of the monarchy. "It has felt like they have taken the lead, and let's say they've done it extremely well, so it's a relief, and it shows how strong the Royal Family is for the next generation, and that's very encouraging," Eden said.

Mail on Sunday's Charlotte Griffiths added that Middleton has been doing a great job since returning to her royal duties. "She's a real Queen-in-waiting I think, and she's always had such amazing poise, great fashion sense, and she's just grown into the job so well," she said.

King Charles was also diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, and despite his continued work during treatment, royal author Sally Bedell Smith suggested to People that the Waleses are aware that they could take the throne sooner than expected and are making the proper preparations.

"Although The King is carrying out his duties with typical determination, he has had to accept limitations during his cancer treatment," Smith said.  "As a result, William has been taking on more responsibilities, and he and Kate have been preparing for their future roles sooner than they would have expected."

Although the prince and princess are getting ready for their next role, their main focus continues to be Middleton's health. "There’s a sense of calm before the storm," another source told the publication. "They are next in line for the biggest job of their lives, and of course, Kate’s health has taken priority, but it’s also allowed everyone to take a step back and figure out what’s important right now.”

Read the original article on InStyle