The moment seemed to become more awkward once the carriage ride ended.
A strained interaction after the procession
After stepping down from the carriage, Catherine briefly turned back toward Beatrice, a gesture the expert interpreted as a delayed acknowledgment.
However, Beatrice appeared to continue walking without engaging.
“She looks down and strides out as though keen to walk ahead of Kate,” James explained.
Shortly afterward, Catherine seemed to attempt a short conversation with her cousin-in-law while they were walking.
The expert suggested the Princess of Wales may have been trying to create a friendly moment or lighten the atmosphere in front of the public.
Beatrice, however, appeared focused on moving forward rather than pausing for conversation.
“This suggests that either Beatrice had the expectation of being left alone or that that would have been what she preferred,” James said.
“She does look up as Kate speaks to her but her stride still appears strong as though her intent is to go on ahead.”