Here's Why Prince William and Kate Middleton Basically Never Hold Hands in Public

Prince William and Kate Middleton are the definition of #RelationshipGoals: Not only do the royal duo have immense respect for one another, but they also seem to be immensely happy and endlessly in love more or less all of the time. Even in what might be the most boring of obligations in their roles as Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the two always seem to be having a good time when they're together. But given how obvious it is that Prince William and Kate are the best of friends, as well as soul mates, why is it that they never seem to hold hands or show other forms of physical affection in public? 

As it turns out, the answer is deceivingly simple. Earlier this week, PEOPLE interviewed Myka Meier, a royal etiquette expert, to figure out why Kate and her husband so rarely seem to make public contact. While she explained that there's no official rule in place that the monarchy isn't allowed to be physically affectionate in public, the reason they aren't is simply a matter of decorum.

"The likely reasoning is more that while traveling on a tour such as the India trip, technically the couple are working representatives of British Monarchy," she said. "The couple are likely to show very little PDA, if any, to remain professional during their designated roles abroad." 

Basically, the two are on the job—and like most people, aren't going to be making out with their spouse while they're supposed to be working. As PEOPLE pointed out, Prince William and Kate also tend to be much more relaxed about their PDA when attending lighthearted public events, so any diehard fans of the couple need not worry about the lack of hand holding.

Follow Marie Claire on Instagram for the latest celeb news, pretty pics, funny stuff, and an insider POV.