Since their fairytale wedding back in May, rumours have been rife that Meghan Markle is secretly expecting her first child. And now, as the former Suits actress steps out with the hint of a rounded bump and a tell-tale glowing smile, New Idea can exclusively reveal that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are just days away from making their big baby announcement.
Following a string of public appearances in the past few weeks, royal watchers have noted how protective Prince Harry is of his wife. And understandably so, as sources reveal the couple have been keeping their exciting news under wraps so as not to overshadow Princess Eugenie’s upcoming nuptials.
But with the royal couple’s upcoming tour of the Pacific just weeks away, it looks as though Meghan’s pregnancy won’t stay a secret for long.
Although their schedule states they will be heading to the Fijian capital, Suva, on Oct. 23 and 24, and Nadi on Oct. 25, sources reveal that “pregnant Meghan has pulled out” due to the risk of contracting the potentially deadly Zika virus.
A local tour guide spilled the news when asked about their royal guests.
“Harry and Meghan are visiting here when they come to Fiji because it’s the former President’s home village,” she declared, before correcting herself and stating, “Oh, that’s right. Meghan’s not coming now. Only Harry.”
Related: ‘Palace confirms: Meghan and Kate both pregnant’
The tour guide said it was likely Meghan will stay in Sydney while Prince Harry heads to Fiji.
A 2017 report state was one case of the virus in the country, and as such, Meghan has decided to pull out. Zika is particularly dangerous for pregnant women as it can be passed onto the unborn foetus and cause complications.
Despite the likelihood of contracting the virus being low, it’s clear the duchess isn’t willing to take any chances.
In the meantime, Meghan’s mother Doria Ragland is set to join her daughter in Sydney for added support, with reports the yoga instructor has even been taking “nanny classes”.
Related: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry reportedly ‘having twins’
“She’s taking classes in breastfeeding, childbirth, newborn care, CPR and first aid, because she plans to move to Kensington Palace to help Meghan once the first baby arrives,” a source told UK newspaper The Daily Star.
Indeed, royal fans are thrilled with the pending announcement, and baby name speculation is already mounting.
British bookmaker Harry Aitkenhead told The Sun: “Royal fans are getting excited with the belief that a royal baby next year is almost a certainty now. Princess Olivia is now by far the most popular choice from our punters if the couple do have a baby girl.”
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