Alleged feud between Meghan and Kate reportedly led to sudden firing of longtime staffer

The alleged fracture within the royal family is leading to external consequences, according to a new report.

Insiders speaking to the Daily Mail claim that one of Kate Middleton's longtime staffers suddenly found herself unemployed just after returning from her honeymoon, and her unexpected layoff was a result of the growing separation between the Cambridges and the Sussexes.

Aide Sophie Agnew was by Kate's side for more than seven years - so close that she frequently appeared in the background of Kate's paparazzi photos - and was reportedly caught totally off-guard by the announcement: "Sophie worked so hard for Kate," a friend told the outlet. "She loved her job and made a lot of sacrifices."

【ギャラリー】Kate Middleton wears floral dress for Back to Nature garden40

Sophie's job apparently became unnecessary after it became clear that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wanted to draw more separation between themselves and Prince William and Kate: "Her role has been made redundant as a results of the split of the two households," a senior-level source confirmed to the Daily Mail, adding, "She will not be replaced."

But to those close to Sophie, the decision seems bizarre: "Everyone's been really shocked because it was so unexpected," one insider said. "It seems like extreme cost-cutting."

Sophie, 32, is the second of Kate's staffers to exit her post soon after getting married. In 2017, Kate's private secretary, Rebecca Deacon, tied the knot and suddenly quit.

【ギャラリー】Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton attend polo match with kids41