Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II are believed to have experienced some kind of conflict due to one walking rule that has been put in place for years.

Royal protocol dictates that people should always walk two steps behind the monarch, and this doesn’t exclude the Duke of Edinburgh. But since Prince Philip is the head of his family, some experts are convinced that the rule could’ve caused tension between the couple.

On Netflix’s “The Crown,” the royal couple’s relationship was discussed. Matt Smith, who plays the role of Prince Philip in the series, said that he’s particularly interested in seeing the conflict between the couple due to the said walking rule.

“He is going to walk two steps behind her, wanting to feel the head of the family. It’s an interesting conflict to explore,” he said.

Prince Philip and the Queen have been married for over seven decades. And as such, it is quite expected that their body language would have already changed. But an expert said that this hasn’t been the case.

While speaking with Good Housekeeping, body language expert Blanca Cobb said that Prince Philip’s love and adoration for his wife is still evident. Her Majesty, on the other hand, is quite guarded because she’s trying to prove her independence. But this doesn’t mean that she’s not affection towards her husband.

The royal couple is also known for doing their so-called secret touch, which involves discreet hand holding.

“This type of handhold is seen time and time again. It’s more formal than interlocking fingers but it’s unique to them… It’s their way of reassurance and comfort,” Patti Wood, another body language expert said.

And as the couple got older, the Queen became more dependent on her husband physically. When they are out in public, the Queen usually holds on to Prince Philip for assistance and not to express her affection towards him. And in these moments, Prince Philip is ready to support his wife.

Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip
Pictured: The Queen, Prince Philip depart a Service of Commemoration for troops who were stationed in Afghanistan on March 13, 2015 in London, England. Getty Images/Chris Jackson