The Countess of Wessex displayed tears of grief as members of the Royal family inspected floral tributes at Balmoral, where Queen Elizabeth II died on Thursday.
Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward were also present, with their expressions of grief clearly showing just how deeply her passing had affected them.
But it was Sophie Wessex whose emotion portrayed the extra special bond she shared with Her Majesty.
Married to the late monarch's youngest son Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, Sophie was often described as the 'Queen's favourite.'
Their relationship was said to have developed over the years, with both women supporting one another through periods of personal loss and becoming close confidants.
When the Countess’s mum passed away in 2005, the Queen offered her the support and solace she needed.
After the death of Prince Philip last year, Sophie comforted her mother-in-law with royal insiders describing her as "a rock." She eventually referred to her as "mama," reports say.
The Countess would often visit the Queen from her home at Bagshot Park, just 10 miles away from Windsor Castle.
When a visit in person was not possible due to busy schedules, Sophie would share daily phone calls with the Queen.
The pair also enjoyed walks around the Windsor estate following the lifting of Covid restrictions.
Sophie was the first member of the Royal family to open up publicly about the Duke of Edinburgh's death.
Experts claim this to be a sign of the level of trust and affection she had come to share with the family.
"Sophie cherishes her relationship with the Queen and not only appreciates her guidance and wisdom throughout her own life, she is very protective of her," one source told The Telegraph.
"Their bond is very like a mother and daughter and the feeling of love and respect is quite mutual. It is very special."
Sophie and the Queen were also said to share several common interests including a love of horses, military history and the countryside.
