Queen-consort-to-be Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge has been studying The Queen for years in a bid to do half as good a job when she takes the throne.
And that includes forming long-term allies.
Sources can reveal Kate, 39, is slowly building a team of “special loyal friends” around her.
That includes Sophie, Countess of Wessex and Prince Edward’s talented daughter, Lady Louise Windsor, 17.
The teen royal is facing the decision of whether or not to adopt an “HRH” title on her upcoming birthday.
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Kate Middleton is said to be forming a close bond with 17-year-old Lady Louise.
(Getty)An insider says, “Kate and Louise have become very close in the lead-up to her 18th birthday.”
“There’s a lot to talk about and Kate’s become a mentor to her, helping her prepare and decide on her future role in the family.”
“Lou’s very shy and was nervous about formally taking on royal duties, but there’s no one more qualified to ease her mind than Kate.
“They both love sports and the arts, and have similar temperaments.”
“Princess Charlotte idolises her cousin too, but the big bonus is Kate’s found a young but extremely loyal ally in the palace.”
Lady Louise was only eight-years-old when she made her global debut as one of the bridesmaids at Catherine’s wedding to Prince William in 2011.
As for her royal title, when Sophie and Edward married in 1999, they decided they wanted their future children to lead a normal life – opting to drop “HRH” titles, which is why Louise has the title “Lady.”
However, Louise could choose to take up the HRH title when she turns 18, as long as the Queen approved the change.
