Prince Harry's return to London reopened one of the most tense chapters in the recent history of the British royal family. Father and son saw each other face to face after 19 months marked by distance. The brief meeting caused as much expectation as questions about the future of their relationship.
The meeting, held at Clarence House, was interpreted as a gesture of détente. Although it lasted only fifty minutes, it was considered progress in the deteriorated family relationship. However, the lack of affectionate gestures showed that the wounds are still far from healing.
A desired reunion after months of distance
Prince Harry had not seen his father for more than a year and a half. The desired meeting, although brief, was perceived as a step toward dialogue. Many interpreted it as a sign that a different stage could begin.
Sources close to the palace indicated that the atmosphere was cordial but restrained. There were no official photographs, no hugs, and no joint statements after the meeting. Caution prevailed at all times, which fueled new speculation in the British press.
The meeting took place amid a busy schedule for Charles III, marked by institutional commitments. Even so, the monarch wanted to set aside time for his younger son. That gesture was seen as an attempt at rapprochement, despite the brevity of the meeting.
The frustrated desire for a part-time role
In recent months, Harry has hinted that he would like to spend more time in the United Kingdom. There has even been talk of his desire for his children to have more contact with their grandfather. For some, that aspiration seemed to open the door to a renewed role within the royal family.
However, the proposal that became known after the meeting surprised many observers. Harry reportedly suggested the idea of returning as an active member of the royal family, but on a part-time basis. This is a model that has never existed in the institution and which caused immediate rejection.
Charles III was reportedly blunt in addressing the issue. According to sources close to him, the monarch made it clear that the Crown doesn't consider halfway figures. "Half in, half out" is not an option, he reiterated, thus confirming what has been kept since the Sandringham summit.
A clear message from the palace
The king's response was interpreted as a reminder of continuity with Queen Elizabeth II's decision. The late monarch had already established that family members could not split their duties. Charles III keeps that stance firm and conveyed it directly to his son, after years of hiding it.
The gesture also seeks to close a debate that the British press has reignited on multiple occasions. The possibility of seeing Harry as a "part-time royal" has completely faded. The institution, according to sources, is not willing to modify its structure for personal demands.
After the meeting, Harry returned to his life in Montecito with Meghan and their children. The duke has reiterated that the priority is to keep the bond with his father. However, expectations of an official return seem more distant than ever.