Prince Harry is hoping to rebuild his relationship with the Royal Family one step at a time, beginning with regular private meetings with his father, King Charles, according to reports.
Friends of the Duke of Sussex believe his return to Britain could mark the beginning of a long-term reconciliation with the family, with Harry's relationship with his father apparently the first priority.
Monthly tea with the King
The idea of Harry taking tea with the King once a month has reportedly been floated, allowing Charles to spend more time with his son and his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
A friend told the Daily Mail that Harry wants his children to “properly get to know” their grandfather and become part of his life. The source suggested the meetings would be deliberately informal, with Harry keen to avoid the Palace machinery surrounding them.
Hope for a public appearance with William
The hope, however, appears to go considerably further. Friends reportedly believe Harry could eventually rebuild his relationship with William, with one suggesting the ultimate goal would be for the brothers to appear together in public.
“It's too soon now but there is a hope and a belief that one day they will appear in public together and that will completely change the narrative,” the friend said. “There is communication between them.”
Such a moment would represent a dramatic turnaround after years of estrangement between the brothers. Harry and William have rarely been seen together since Harry and Meghan stepped down as working royals and moved to the US.
Obstacles remain
Harry's friends reportedly believe public sentiment towards him may also be starting to change, with his return to Britain providing an opportunity to rebuild bridges. But there are significant obstacles.
Sources close to William have continued to suggest that the Prince of Wales is not ready to reconcile with his brother, while reports have indicated that he and Catherine are taking a cautious approach to Harry and Meghan's return. For now, Harry's relationship with Charles appears to be considerably further along than his relationship with William.
The Daily Express has contacted Buckingham Palace for comment as well as the Duke of Sussex.
