Why Kate Middleton and Prince William’s Royal Engagement Anniversary Feels Different This Year

November 16 marks 15 years since Kate Middleton and Prince William announced their royal engagement — a milestone that feels especially significant this year. The past few years have tested the Prince and Princess of Wales in ways both public and private, yet they emerge stronger, more confident and more united than ever.

Last year, William acknowledged it had been “the hardest year of my life,” as both Kate and his father, King Charles, faced cancer diagnoses. From Kate’s health journey to their determination to protect Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, their bond — as partners and parents — has only deepened.

That renewed closeness has become increasingly visible. Of their recent public displays of affection, royal biographer Ingrid Seward previously told PEOPLE, “William must feel so fortunate that Kate has come through this that he wants to tell the world about that love. It shows the intimacy of them sharing that journey together.”

“They are happy for people to see them be touchy-feely,” Seward added. “They’re in a different phase of their life now. William is very protective and very proud of her for coming through this and carrying on with her life.”

A source close to the royal household told PEOPLE they are “more open” now and “talk about their relationship together.”

They remain a unit — raising three children, navigating public scrutiny and balancing royal duties with private life — with a sense of calm and perspective that was hard-won.

William appears more relaxed and confident than ever, a fact evident in his recent world-stage moments: from his Earthshot Foundation appearance in Brazil to his playful cameo on Dancing With the Stars and his unexpected Reluctant Traveler segment.

Kate, meanwhile, has grown more open and approachable in her engagements. She relates to the public and her work with a warmth and ease she never had before, strengthened by the lessons of motherhood and a life-changing health event. Her confidence and focus on what truly matters have never been clearer.

Now, as they celebrate the anniversary of the moment William asked Kate to be his wife, there’s a renewed sense of closeness. Insiders say the pair have grown more protective of each other and more focused on family-first priorities, creating a partnership that is both grounded and resilient.

As Kate herself said in her September 2024 video announcing that she had completed chemotherapy: “This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved.”

Adding to the significance of this year’s milestone, Kate and William have moved into a new “forever home,” Forest Lodge in Windsor, a fresh chapter that allows them to leave behind the challenges of the past few years.

Even challenges that might have rocked them in the past — including scandals like the former Prince Andrew’s — no longer appear to have the same impact. Instead, they approach difficulties with calm, perspective and swiftness, ensuring their family and priorities remain protected.

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This anniversary isn’t just about looking back on the romantic moment that captivated the world — it’s about celebrating the resilience of a couple who have come through life’s challenges stronger than ever.