Norway's Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit have been pictured together for the first time since rumours of an impending separation began to swirl last week.The Norweigan royal couple were all smiles as they were photographed together for a charity's Facebook page.A snapshot of the pair and fellow members of the board of directors was posted on the social media site on Wednesday.
The pretty blonde princess and her handsome dark-haired prince stood shoulder to shoulder beaming for the camera.
Another photo inside the Kronprinsparets Fund headquarters showed them taking a break during a meeting with Mette-Marit gazing affectionately at her husband of 12 years.
The charity aims to support vulnerable young people by providing them with new challenges and experiences.
Stories and comments that speak of "growing distance" between the couple appeared on social media sites such as Twitter last week.
HELLO! Onlinecontacted the palace about the reports, and were told: "We don't comment on rumours."
The 40-year-old, who is the mother of two children with Haakon and another son from a previous relationship, then had to enter a rehabilitation programme.
As a result she had to cancel a visit to Atlanta in the US after pulling out of a trip to Finland in October – meaning Prince Haakon went alone.
Her charity visit was the first duty she has undertaken since then. She was expected to be out of action until after Christmas.
Earlier this month the princess underwent neck surgery in Oslo for an ongoing neck problem, spending a few days in a hospital in the capital for the operation on her herniated disc.
Rumours of a split first began in October, when it was announced Mette-Marit would be taking some time off official duties for sick leave.
Furthermore, the couple's spokeperson confirmed that "there will be no press release of any sort", concerning the couple.