Just when it seemed like there might be progress behind closed doors, a private royal meeting aimed at thawing tensions between Prince Harry and King Charles has found its way into the headlines—leaving Harry and Meghan reportedly frustrated.
This secret sit-down, involving senior members of both camps, was never meant to go public.
But once photos surfaced, any hopes of a quiet reconciliation took a hit.
Drinks, Diplomacy, and a Royal Flashpoint
On Wednesday afternoon, Meredith Maines, head of communications for the Sussexes, was seen arriving at the Royal Over-Seas League near Clarence House.
She was joined by Liam Maguire, Harry and Meghan’s PR lead in the UK.
Shortly afterward, Tobyn Andreae, communications secretary to King Charles, showed up with a gift bag from Berry Bros & Rudd, the royal wine supplier.
The trio enjoyed drinks on the garden terrace, soaking in the 26°C sunshine with a view over Green Park, before heading inside for further conversation.
The venue—ironically, a private members’ club promoting international friendship—couldn’t have been more symbolic.
Who Arranged the Meeting? That’s Still a Mystery
It’s unclear whether the meeting was arranged by Harry or the King himself. But the optics were striking.
Even though it was described as informal, the get-together raised eyebrows and reignited speculation that reconciliation between father and son could finally be on the table.
Both Harry, 40, and Charles, 76, have reportedly expressed interest in mending their relationship, especially in light of the King’s cancer diagnosis.
The summit was described by one palace source as a “significant moment”, hinting that open communication may slowly be returning.
The Leak Sparks Frustration from Team Sussex
But there’s a catch. According to multiple sources, Harry and Meghan are frustrated that the meeting became public so quickly—especially since they deny having anything to do with the leak.
The couple’s team insists they didn’t share details with The Mail on Sunday, which broke the story with exclusive photos.
Privately, the Sussexes are said to have viewed the leak as a frustrating distraction from what they hoped would be a genuine step forward.
After all, peace is hard to build when every move ends up on a front page.
“A First Step”—But a Long Way to Go
Despite the surprise exposure, insiders remain cautiously optimistic.
One source described the meeting as the “first step” toward rebuilding trust between Harry and his father.
There was no formal agenda—just honest conversation over drinks, a sign that perhaps both sides are ready to engage again.
That said, insiders also noted this was not a high-stakes negotiation but more of a courtesy call, particularly for Ms Maines to meet her British counterpart.
William Remains a Wild Card
As for Prince William, it’s unclear whether he was aware of the meeting in advance.
Buckingham Palace isn’t commenting, and royal watchers are split on whether the meeting would’ve gone ahead without William’s tacit approval.
Still, one insider warned that rebuilding with William will be much tougher, calling that rift “a different matter entirely.”
Could the Invictus Games Bring a Public Reconciliation?
Looking ahead, one possible moment for a more public olive branch might come during the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham—a project close to Harry’s heart and one that may offer a neutral setting for both sides to reconnect.
Before then, Harry is expected back in the UK this September for the WellChild events, which could present another chance for private dialogue—assuming things remain calm.
No Official Comment—But the Door Might Be Ajar
As of now, Buckingham Palace and Mr Andreae are keeping quiet.
The Sussexes’ reps also haven’t issued a public statement.
But this unexpected meeting, however short and unplanned it may have seemed, could be the small spark needed to light the way forward—if both sides can keep the next step out of the tabloids.