During “A Berry Royal Christmas Special,” Prince Williams placed his hand on the upper arm of his wife Duchess Kate Middleton, who moved her arm away as if to brush it off. Immediately, viewers speculated there was trouble in paradise, but it seems there was more to it than that.

The moment was a “blink and you’ll miss it” kind of thing, but that didn’t stop loyal royal fans from breaking it down and trying to figure out what’s really going on. The slight gesture has since gone viral and has had people talking. It is confirmed that the “brush off” moment was, in fact, completely purposeful on Middleton’s part.

Prince William and Kate Middleton
Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton are pictured on a five-day visit to Pakistan. AFP/Aamir QURESHI

However, Entertainment Tonight reports that Middleton had no malicious intent. The gesture was only intended to keep their PDA down to a minimum, something the royal couple has been conscious about throughout their relationship.

Initially, that’s what people suspected, but that didn’t stop the internet from doing their own investigations. Twitter users brought up her hand placements and the simple fact that she folded her arms was a statement of her distaste for Prince William.

Although while in public, the royal couple tends to keep their hands to themselves as a way of maintaining their professionalism. That isn’t to say they don’t get close to each other or openly express their affection, it’s just not put on full display. Many viewers noted that Middleton shrugging off Prince William was only a brief moment, while the rest of “A Berry Royal Christmas Special” showed the royal couple being rather warm with one another.

Their stance on PDA is slightly contrary to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, who are often seen kissing and hugging in public.

As future King and Queen, Duchess Middleton has a certain standard and public image to maintain, sources say. "It’s not frowned upon. It’s just a decision about the way they conduct themselves.” The source confirms that the royal couple is in a good relationship and are very happy together.