Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may have settled into their lifestyle, but there is still a long road ahead in their reconciliation with the royals. Consequently, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were not expecting an invitation to the upcoming Sandringham Christmas gathering.

Even though the monarch is keen on getting closer to his grandchildren, a family reunion during the holidays is considered "too soon." According to sources close to Harry and Meghan, the family will be travelling back to Montecito for now. Prince Harry wanted nothing more than for Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet to experience the Christmas he enjoyed in his childhood.

Insiders told New Idea that he was "desperate" to reunite with his family and for his children to have a taste of the royal holiday. "The fact is, he always gets very homesick at that time of year; he misses being a part of all their traditions," the source said.

However, the source does not rule out future family gatherings where the Sussexes might be invited. It may not happen at Sandringham, but it could occur elsewhere.

"[Harry] would love Archie and Lilibet to experience a proper royal Christmas and finally meet more of the extended family, whether that's at Sandringham or wherever Charles decides is best." The ongoing tension between the Sussexes and the rest of the Royal Family has been a subject of intense media speculation for years.

Since stepping back from their senior roles, the couple has resided in the United States, creating a physical and emotional distance that has proven difficult to bridge. Royal experts suggest that while King Charles III maintains a desire for family unity, the complexities of public perception and internal dynamics remain significant hurdles.

The path to reconciliation is viewed as a delicate process that requires time and private resolution. Despite the lack of an invitation for this year's festivities, observers note that the lines of communication remain open.

The focus for the Sussexes remains on their children's upbringing while navigating their relationship with the British monarchy. As the holiday season approaches, the world watches to see how the Royal Family manages these private matters.

For now, the focus remains on the traditions of Sandringham, while Harry and Meghan continue their life in California. Ultimately, the hope for a future reunion remains a possibility, provided that both sides can find common ground in the years to come.