In the opening sequence of The Crown's Season 6, Episode 7, the paths of Kate and her doting mother, Carole Middleton, cross unexpectedly with those of the late Princess Diana and Prince William. As a young teenager, Kate finds the allure of Prince William irresistible, and her notebook pages are adorned with images of the charming prince. Carole, with a mother's encouragement, tells Kate that her dreams, including a potential future with William, are achievable if she sets her heart to it.
In the current timeline, following Princess Diana's demise, Prince William deliberates over various universities, initially leaning towards Edinburgh. However, fate leads him to St. Andrews University. Carole, determined to ensure her daughter's proximity to William, orchestrates Kate's enrollment in the same institution, even pushing her to accelerate her education by skipping a year and stepping outside her social comfort zone.
Once at university, William is inundated with undue attention from his peers, making him feel uneasy and overwhelmed given his naturally reserved and quiet nature. However, he swiftly finds himself captivated by Kate, their smiles often crossing during morning strolls and accidental encounters in classes and around campus.
Finally, after much longing for the opportune moment, Prince William encounters Kate in the library, as she holds the books he had been searching for. However, their budding connection is jeopardized by a bitter ex-flame of William's. Moreover, William's frustration boils over when a peer asks for his autograph, and his aggressive reaction repels Kate, leaving her indifferent to any further association with him.
Shortly after, Kate embarks on a new romance, leaving William powerless to intervene. However, amidst the tumult of Kate's courtship, William finds redemption for his library outburst. As Kate reconciles with him, their past grievances fade into the background.
As William ponders a university transfer at Balmoral Castle, the sight of Kate with another man gnaws at his heart. Meanwhile, Kate introduces her boyfriend to her parents. Once her suitor departs, Kate's mother delicately inquiries about the nature of her daughter's relationship. The question strikes a nerve, causing Kate to lash out, accusing her mother of being fixated on William and scheming to reunite her with him.
In response, Kate's mother reveals the reason behind her actions and divulges that William is contemplating a change of educational institution. The evening culminates with William receiving a heartfelt message from Kate, urging him not to alter his academic path.
