As Kate Middleton continues to recover after her cancer diagnosis, she is also looking ahead at becoming Queen sooner than expected. The Princess of Wales just wrapped up her biggest public outing since completing chemotherapy in September—her annual Christmas carol service on Dec.

Princess Catherine spoke about her “unplanned” year, while Sally Bedell Smith says King Charles’s health has prompted the couple to consider their future reign.

As Kate Middleton continues her recovery, she’s confronting the looming responsibilities of her future role as Queen sooner than expected. Plans continue to be made behind the scenes for Prince William’s eventual succession,