Fresh off her debut at Paris Fashion Week, Meghan Markle made another high-profile appearance — this time back on home soil. On Thursday night (October 9), the Duchess of Sussex was joined by Prince Harry for a glittering evening at New York City’s Project Healthy Minds Gala.

The couple arrived at Spring Studios for the annual event, which champions mental health awareness and accessibility across America. During the ceremony, they were honoured with the Humanitarians of the Year Award, recognised for the Archewell Foundation’s work to protect children online and promote digital wellbeing.

Their outing came amid ongoing reports of a possible “professional separation,” suggesting the couple may soon take on more independent ventures while continuing to support each other’s causes.

Meghan’s understated look

While Meghan turned heads in France earlier this week with a sculptural Balenciaga gown, she opted for understated elegance in New York. The Duchess wore a minimalist all-black suit featuring a plunging blazer and wide-leg culottes, paired with gold chains, stud earrings, and a sleek ponytail. Harry coordinated in a classic black tuxedo, complementing her refined look.

What really got people talking

Despite the star-studded guest list and polished style, it wasn’t the fashion or the award that stole the spotlight — it was the couple’s affection for one another.

Photos from the red carpet, now circulating widely online, show Meghan gazing lovingly at Harry as they posed together. Fans flooded social media with comments about the couple’s chemistry.

“The way she looks at him. That’s love,” one Reddit user wrote. Another added: “Even without the hand holding, it’s so clear how much they like being around each other.”

“I honestly love that they always hold hands,” a third said. “I hope they do it when they’re old and grey. Physical touch is definitely one of their love languages.”

Inspired by their children

While accepting their award, Meghan reflected on how their work in mental health and online safety is driven by their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

“Our children, Archie and Lilibet, are just six and four years old,” she said on stage, turning to Harry with a smile. “Can you believe it?”

The Duchess continued with a heartfelt warning about the digital world’s growing challenges.

“Luckily, they’re still too young for social media, but we know that day is coming,” she said. “Like so many parents, we think constantly about how to embrace technology’s benefits while safeguarding against its dangers. And that hopeful intention of separation is rapidly becoming impossibl