In a recent revelation, it appears that King Charles' hopes for a united royal family this Christmas might be dashed. Despite the king's deep affection for Prince Harry, often referring to him as his "darling boy," the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's plans for the festive season seem to be steering clear of the royal household.

According to sources, King Charles has expressed his desire for a united family, especially during the festive season. However, royal expert Dunlop shared with the media, “Christmas is coming and we want Meghan and Harry to inject the Windsor brand with a bit of transatlantic tension. But don’t hold your breath, just as Harry was a no-show at Balmoral this summer it is unlikely that he’ll grace Sandringham with his presence.” She further added that it doesn't even seem like King Charles will get a Christmas cuddle with his absent grandchildren.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's decision to step back from their royal duties and move to California has been a topic of much discussion and speculation. While Meghan seems to be thriving in California with her celebrity friends, new agent, and potential return as an influencer, Harry often appears to be out of place. Dunlop mentioned, “Meghan is just fine in California... Not so Harry, who is often pictured looking, well, spare.”

Despite Harry's apparent homesickness and desire to have a U.K. base, his concerns about security might prevent him from investing in a private property in London. Dunlop noted, “I’m sure Harry would like a bolthole in London — it’s his home city after all — but it makes no sense for the safety-obsessed Sussexes to invest in a private property when they can bunk up with cousins on the Windsor estate or stay in one of London’s working palaces where the security brief is on-tap.”

The British public, according to Dunlop, misses the old Harry. She stated, "Let’s face it, this new more discreet Duke and Duchess who keep themselves to themselves in America, popping up occasionally to do good works is a bit boring."

The Royal Observer reported that King Charles had hoped the Sussex family would attend his 75th birthday party. Biographer Angela Levin commented, "Charles would want Harry and Meghan's children there. If Harry and Meghan want to make an excuse, that’s their decision."

Those close to King Charles have expressed their disappointment regarding the rift between the father and son. A friend of Charles mentioned, "The whole thing with Harry is just desperately sad." However, there's a glimmer of hope as the same source added, "The king is happy that Harry, his son, who he calls his 'darling boy' will be at the Abbey. He wanted him there. It is sad, he is very disappointed that he won’t see Meghan or his grandchildren but understands the situation."

Journalist Mark Boardman weighed in on the situation, stating that Meghan is frustrated with Harry's longing for his old life. He said, “Meghan loves Harry, but she wants to bring out the better side in him. And she’s quite clear on the roles that they should take together and they are trying to work better together on projects.”

In conclusion, while the royal family and the British public might yearn for a reunion, the Sussexes seem to be charting their own course, prioritizing their family's well-being and security.