Prince Harry and Meghan Markle met with King Charles and Queen Camilla for tea at Highgrove, marking a quiet reunion after a period of intense media attention. While the meeting itself was low-key and free of public briefings, sources close to the couple suggest that the week's events were met with underlying sadness, particularly for Meghan, who reportedly felt humiliated by public discussions surrounding their security arrangements.
Despite these challenges, the meeting is viewed as a significant step toward reconciliation with the King. Prince Harry reportedly agreed to the conditions of the reunion, which included no cameras or public statements, "in a heartbeat." Friends indicate that Harry was motivated by a desire not to disappoint his children, Archie and Lilibet, who were eager to visit their grandfather. Queen Camilla, who had previously been described critically by Harry, was present at this meeting, a notable inclusion.
Shifting Sands in the American Dream
Several sources close to the Sussexes suggest a potential shift in their feelings about their life in the United States. "There is definitely a feeling in his camp that he has started to feel a bit unwelcome in America," one friend stated. This sentiment, reportedly shared by Meghan, points to a cooling of the initial excitement around their "American dream." The end of major deals with Spotify and Netflix, coupled with a perceived decline in Meghan's public popularity, may also be factors contributing to this reevaluation.
This contemplation of a return to the UK, even in a limited capacity, is being framed by some as an effort to "reverse Megxit." The couple's recently purchased home in Portugal is seen as a potential staging post for easier travel to Britain, allowing for a "half in and half out" arrangement. Harry reportedly desires to maintain commercial ventures in the U.S. while still being recognized as working royals when in the UK.
Security and Legal Battles
Security concerns have been a significant issue for Prince Harry, who has expressed dissatisfaction with the arrangements provided. His request for the Home Office committee RAVEC to reassess his security and for his private team to receive intelligence from security services was a point of contention during the recent visit. Despite initial reports that the situation remained unchanged, a friend indicated that security was "actually was 'improved' this time for the visit," though it did not meet Harry's initial full requirements.
Furthermore, Prince Harry's recent legal battles appear to be drawing to a close. Following a significant defeat in his lawsuit against Associated Newspapers over allegations of phone hacking, friends suggest he is moving away from further litigation. His public statement criticizing the High Court judge's ruling reportedly caused "astonishment" and "profound upset" within Palace circles.
Reconnecting with Family
While the relationship between Prince Harry and his father, King Charles, shows signs of mending, the rift with his brother, Prince William, remains unresolved. Although friends claim Harry and William "do communicate," the absence of William at the Highgrove meeting was noted. The ultimate future for the Sussexes is seen by some as depending more on their relationship with William than with their father.
Looking ahead, Prince Harry is expected to return to the UK in September for another charity event, with expectations of another meeting with the King. Plans are also in motion for him to attend the Invictus Games in Birmingham next summer, with Meghan and their children potentially joining him. The family's new home in Portugal is expected to facilitate these visits, bringing them closer to their royal relatives.