When Meghan Markle said “I do” to Prince Harry, she likely envisioned a fairy tale existence – lavish balls, pampering servants, and endless adoration from the British public. However, the former actress soon discovered that trading in her Hollywood glamour for a tiara came with a much steeper price.

By all accounts, the Duchess of Sussex was utterly unprepared for the rigid protocols, constant scrutiny, and lack of personal freedom that came with joining the House of Windsor. Sources say Meghan was completely “blindsided” by the realities of royal life.

“Meghan thought it would be all tiaras and privilege,” a palace insider sniffed. “She had no idea how demanding and restricting life as a royal would be.”

From having to curtsy to her own husband’s grandmother, to enduring the piercing glare of the British tabloid media, the culture shock proved overwhelming for the American-born Meghan. Gone were the days of red carpets and paparazzi flashes – now she faced vicious rumor-mongering and relentless public criticism.

“Meghan just didn’t get it,” the source continued. “She kept pushing back against tradition and expected special treatment. It was a massive wakeup call.”

The final straw, it seems, was when Meghan was denied the chance to personally design the logo for her and Harry’s charitable foundation. Palace aides reportedly shot down her ideas, much to the Duchess’s dismay.

“Meghan thought she could waltz in and shake things up. But the royals quickly put her in her place,” the insider scoffed. “She’s just not cut out for this life.”

With that, Meghan and Harry made their dramatic exit, fleeing the UK for the perceived greener pastures of North America. While the couple insist they are pursuing a “progressive new role,” many palace insiders believe Meghan’s royal fairy tale was nothing more than an elaborate mirage.

“She had no idea what she was getting into,” the source said dismissively. “Meghan thought she could be a princess. Instead, she got a very rude awakening.”