'Disappointed' Kate Middleton holds crucial meeting after major decision

Princess of Wales Kate Middleton has held a crucial secret meeting at Windsor Castle days after she pulled out of Royal Ascot.

According to a report by the Daily Mail, the future queen held a crucial meeting on Wednesday as she quietly returned to work.

Confusion was sparked when it was announced that the Princess of Wales, who is in remission from cancer, would not be attending the second day of the horse racing festival.

However, later Kensington Palace confirmed she would not be attending after all.

The publication reported that Kate was 'disappointed' not to be in attendance 'but she has to find the right balance as she fully returns to public facing engagements'.

Following Kate Middleton’s decision, the outlet reported on Wednesday this week, Kate Middleton privately received Melinda Gates, the former wife of Microsoft Founder Bill, at Windsor Castle.

The future queen was joined by her husband Prince William for her first engagement back in their role as patrons of the Royal Foundation, according to the Court Circular.

The Royal Foundation is the Prince and Princess of Wales primary philanthropic and charitable initiative.

Kate Middleton and Prince William were last seen publicly together as they attended the Order of the Garter in Windsor.

“A brilliant celebration of tradition, service and duty. Thank you to everyone involved,” they said after the event.