Harry and Meghan are reportedly irritated after a private meeting between their head of communications and one of King Charles’s aides was unexpectedly captured on camera.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have denied leaking information about the confidential conversation between Meredith Maines and Tobyn Andreae, the King’s communications secretary, which took place in London last Wednesday.
Also present was Liam Maguire, who leads Harry and Meghan’s public relations team in the UK. The meeting occurred at the Royal Over-Seas League — a private members’ club near Clarence House, known for promoting global friendship and of which the King is notably a patron.
A Surprise Meeting Raises Hopes for Peace
While it remains unclear whether King Charles or Prince Harry initiated the meeting, photos showing both teams enjoying drinks together sparked speculation about a possible reconciliation.
Both the 40-year-old Duke and his 76-year-old father are believed to be eager to mend ties, particularly following the King’s cancer diagnosis last year.
Still, the Sussexes were reportedly upset when the photos and news of the meeting were featured prominently in The Mail on Sunday.
Sources close to Prince Harry stressed that neither he nor Meghan had anything to do with leaking the details. According to The Telegraph, they admitted that seeing the information plastered across front pages wasn’t the ideal beginning to what they had hoped would be a calmer, more peaceful chapter.
A ‘Significant Moment’ — But Not Without Complications
King Charles is said to have approved the meeting, with a source close to him describing it as a “significant moment” that could help heal the strained relationship with his son.
An insider told The Mirror: “The King has always made it clear he loves both his sons and, as he’s done in the past, is willing to meet with Harry when their schedules allow.
“It’s not uncommon for aides from different royal households to meet — especially when new staff members are settling in — but this time, the meeting carries extra weight.
“If Harry can take some time for reflection and approach things calmly, it may open a path forward for repairing his bond with the King.”
However, the same source warned that reconciliation with Prince William would be “a much more difficult matter” and would likely take far longer to address.
Details of the Meeting Surface
Photos from the gathering show Ms Maines arriving in a taxi at around 3:50pm, carrying a black Louis Vuitton bag, accompanied by Mr Maguire. Moments later, Mr Andreae appeared holding a gift — a bottle from Berry Bros & Rudd, the Royal Family’s official wine supplier.
The trio were soon spotted sipping drinks in the warm 26°C (78°F) weather on the garden terrace of the club’s first floor, which overlooks Green Park. After about ten minutes of conversation outdoors, they moved inside to continue their discussions.
A source described the conversation as “the first step toward reconciliation between Harry and his father — and at least it’s a move in the right direction.”
They added to The Mail on Sunday: “There’s still a long way to go, but it’s the first time in years that a clear communication channel has opened. It wasn’t a formal meeting — just relaxed drinks. Each side had things they wanted to bring up.”
Royal Analysts Offer Mixed Views
Some royal experts downplayed the meeting, suggesting it was more a polite introduction than true peace talks. Ingrid Seward, a royal commentator, speculated that it was simply an opportunity for Ms Maines — who only joined the Sussexes’ team earlier this year — to be introduced to Mr Andreae, a highly respected palace aide.
The Palace gave no comment when asked whether Prince William was informed of the meeting. However, royal observers noted that it’s unlikely the gathering would have taken place without his knowledge or at least his quiet approval.
A Future Moment for Reconnection?
The 2027 Invictus Games, set to be held in Birmingham, may present a public opportunity for reconciliation between the Sussexes and the Royal Family, with both sides reportedly discussing the event as a potential moment for reunion.
Prince Harry, now based in California, is expected to return to the UK this September for the annual WellChild events.
Buckingham Palace and Mr Andreae both declined to comment on the matter, while representatives for the Sussexes did not respond.