Prince Harry could be just months away from a major test that, if he passes, could mend his relationship with his estranged brother, Prince William. The duke, who quit royal life six years ago, tends to visit the UK each September to carry out charitable engagements, with the Wellchild Awards the main event on his schedule.
It has been reported that King Charles wants to offer his son a room at Buckingham Palace for the trip. Harry is believed to usually stay at a hotel, with friends, or with his Spencer relatives, making a Palace stay a notable change.
A palace offer with a deadline
Earlier this month, a similar offer was withdrawn after Harry accepted too late. This time, with plenty of notice, it is hoped that he will accept within the right timeframe, allowing the Palace to prepare a space and ensure the stay runs smoothly.
For Harry, staying at the Palace would be his biggest test. In the view of royal reporter Jasmine Carey, what he does or does not do during the stay will be very telling.
The rules of the stay
Carey argues that if Harry stays, avoids taking phone footage that could be shared publicly, respects the rules, and does not overshare, the King may finally trust his youngest son again. Prince William, who has not spoken to Harry for some time, might also start to trust him.
The Palace can prevent Netflix cameras from coming in, but it cannot take Harry's phone or stop him recording. It cannot make him stop sharing stories about his experience. The family must simply trust that he will not.
A chance to prove change
By offering the Palace, the family is giving Harry the opportunity to reconnect with his royal roots more than he has in the past. If he follows the rules and avoids talking about matters the public is not supposed to see or know, the monarch may trust him again.
It could finally prove to William that the Harry of a few years ago, who gave damaging interviews and published a book criticising the Firm, has changed and learned enough to keep quiet.
End to the drama?
Carey writes that the royal drama that has dominated headlines for six years might be closer than ever to ending, and that Harry and William could be closer than ever to talking again.
