If you had a chance to touch Meghan Markle's hair and face and the only repercussion you would suffer was Prince Harry waving a royal finger at you, you would absolutely go for it. Chances like that don't come around often.
However, a handsy grown adult human generally isn't let off so easily. Luckily, the culprit in question in this scenario was a tiny, adorable child. Harry and Meghan were traveling though Ireland when they stopped at an athletic community outreach program. They shook hands, laughed with some kids, and spent plenty of time flashing their pearly whites.
Then Meghan had a close encounter with a overly enthusiastic 3-year-old — and everyone handled it with aplomb.
This little reaction really says it all.
That's Walter Cullen sitting in his dad's arms, having a completely appropriate reaction to meeting Meghan.
Walter can't contain himself: He reaches out for the duchess. It's like he's lost all self-control. (LOL toddlers don't have self-control.)
It looks like she's rebuffing him ever so gently. But Walter is not to be denied.
So Walter extends his tiny little arm with reckless abandon and just goes for it.
He can't be held accountable for his actions. She's too pretty and too sweet, and let's not forget, Walter's barely out of diapers.
Meghan is obviously caught a bit off guard, though she's laughing, but it's all worth it. Walter's face reveals that he's thrilled at his daring accomplishment.
To be fair to Harry, we should point out the Walter didn't really stop after one touch.
Meghan has moved on, but Walter is still going for it.
And now we see him aggressively going for that hair. Again. Enough is enough, Walter!
Enter Prince Harry.
This picture really says it all. Meghan's still giggling, Walter has covered his mouth in mock shame, and Harry is barely containing his laughter as he waves a teasing finger at the young scoundrel.
Most everyone has been completely won over by the cute gesture.
It sounds like a lot of people sympathize with Walter and might have tried the same move if in his situation.
It's one of those little human moments that people are glad to see immortalized on camera.
Unfortunately — and typically — some commenters are getting mad at, well, everyone. People are criticizing Harry for scolding Walter, Walter's dad for not stopping Walter, and Walter for not acting appropriately. (HE'S 3, PEOPLE!)
Thankfully, those people are in the minority.
Most level-headed folks are simply amused and moving on with their lives.
But if you need any more proof that Harry wasn't actually being overprotective of his wife, or that he doesn't really mind fooling around with kids, check out this photo from the same event:
It's a different child sometime after Walter's sneak attack, but obviously the prince has a big heart for kids — and a great sense of humor.
They truly are the best!
