EXCLUSIVE: Meghan Markle Slaps Husband Prince Harry With a Brutal 'Hands Off' Policy' in Public After Being Left Feeling 'Humiliated' by Him Patting Her Bum at Charity Gala

But what should have been a polished moment of celebration quickly turned awkward after cameras captured Harry patting Meghan's bottom on the red carpet – a move insiders say left her "deeply embarrassed."

A source close to the couple said: "Meghan was absolutely humiliated. She's very conscious of how every detail is picked apart, and that moment made her feel like a spectacle. She told Harry afterward that there's a time and place for affection – and the red carpet isn't it. She's made it clear that public displays like that are off-limits from now on."

The couple, who have been married for seven years, are known for holding hands or exchanging glances during public engagements.

But Harry's playful pat on the rear – which appeared to surprise Markle – sparked a flurry of online commentary and social media memes.

According to insiders, the Duchess was upset that what she viewed as a "silly, thoughtless gesture" overshadowed their philanthropic work.

"Meghan puts a lot of effort into how they're perceived at these events," another insider said. "Everything from the styling to the speeches is planned with precision. So when Harry did that, she felt it undermined all the professionalism she was trying to project. She doesn't want to come across as the giggling plus-one – she's trying to build her credibility as a serious figure in philanthropy and business."

Observers noted after Harry's gesture, Markle appeared to subtly reposition his hand higher on her hip and whisper something in his ear before both smiled for photographers.

Later that evening, the couple maintained a more formal demeanor on stage as they accepted their award.

Harry, dressed in a black suit and tie, and Meghan, in a minimalist black Armani suit and gold jewelry, were praised for their coordinated look – but behind the scenes, tensions were simmering.

"She told friends she loves Harry's spontaneity but that he needs to read the room," said one friend. "She doesn't want to embarrass him, but she also won't have him turning a serious occasion into tabloid fodder."

The incident came amid renewed scrutiny of the couple's public image following a mixed reception to Markle's lifestyle brand As Ever and Harry's recent brief solo visit to Britain.

Palace insiders have privately expressed concern the pair's "California casualness" sometimes clashes with their attempts to maintain royal gravitas.

A source familiar with the Sussexes' team said: "There's been a real effort to polish their public image and keep things measured. Meghan's laid down some ground rules – she's fine with affection, but not when it risks becoming the headline. Harry means well, but she's determined to keep things professional, especially when cameras are rolling."

While the couple's relationship remains strong, those close to them say Markle is taking charge of their image more firmly than ever – and putting Harry on a "tighter leash than ever."

An insider said: "Meghan is ultra-protective of their reputation. After the charity gala, she's made it clear – no more hands on her butt when the world can see!"