As Life & Style exclusively revealed, Meghan Markle is getting cold feet when it comes to her secret engagement to Prince Harry — and one of the main reasons is Kate Middleton.

A source shares that the actress is concerned about being compared to Prince William’s wife if she marries into the royal family. “Meghan has told Harry that she doesn’t want to be like Kate. She wants to keep hold of her identity,” the source says.

MORE: Meghan Markle Attends Pippa Middleton’s Wedding Reception With Prince Harry!

Plus, unlike the Duchess of Cambridge, Meghan would not have her family near by to help with the transition. “Her entire family is in California,” the source explains, “and her closet friends are in Toronto [where her TV show Suits is filmed].”

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If anyone understands, it’s Harry. After all, the 32-year-old recently confessed he thought about “giving up the royal life altogether” following the turmoil of his mother’s death. Right now, he’s just trying to ease Meghan’s fears.

“Harry’s playing it smart. He’s being supportive while telling Meghan about the platform they would have to help millions of people around the world,” a different insider says.

Ultimately, the 35-year-old’s closest pals are confident that they’ll make the relationship work. “Meghan is absolutely in love with Harry and wants to have a life with him. Friends of the couple are sure love will win,” says the first source.

As Life & Style previously reported, the pair secretly got engaged late last year, and the brunette beauty even has a ring from her prince charming! “She won’t wear it in public yet because they are trying to keep a lid on everything,” an insider said at the time.

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We could use another royal wedding ASAP!

For more on Meghan and Harry’s relationship, pick up the latest issue of Life & Style, on newsstands now!