Royal Rift: Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton’s Strained Relationship Unveiled

When Queen Elizabeth's body was solemnly brought into Westminster Hall on Wednesday for her lying in state, the spouses of Windsor stood together.

The coffin, gently placed atop the raised catafalque by the young Grenadier guards, bore the Imperial State Crown and was draped in the Royal Standard flag symbolizing the Sovereign in the UK.

Following King Charles III's coronation, Camilla, the new Queen consort, stood beside Kate, the new Princess of Wales.

Acting as a mediator between Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, Sophie Wessex, the Queen's favorite and Prince Edward's wife, attempted to ease the tension in their strained relationship.

The rift between the sisters-in-law, Kate and Meghan, has persisted for over two years, with no communication even during the Sussex family's visit to the UK in June for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

This estrangement stemmed from the fallout of Megxit, when Meghan and Prince Harry distanced themselves from the royal family.

Despite standing side by side on Saturday as they greeted mourners at Windsor Castle, Meghan and Kate barely exchanged glances, highlighting the obstacles that lie ahead in their potential reconciliation.

According to a reliable royal source, there are challenges to overcome for Meghan and Kate to forge a friendship.

The source suggests that positivity and being on the winning side could facilitate the process.

As the royal women stood together in silence on Wednesday, awaiting their husbands after accompanying the Queen on her final journey from Buckingham Palace, a mix of nerves and sorrow was palpable.

Observers noted the dynamics among the four women during these poignant moments.

Body language expert Judy James observed that Kate appeared distressed, Camilla maintained a composed demeanor, and Sophie seemed emotional, while Meghan exuded a poised presence.

The passing of Queen Elizabeth has brought significant shifts within the royal family, with Camilla now expecting deference from others and Meghan anticipated to show respect to Kate, despite doubts from royal observers about the likelihood of such gestures.

Royal biographer Hugo Vickers highlighted the protocol surrounding Meghan's expected courtesy towards Kate, emphasizing the Queen's nonchalant attitude towards such formalities.

The evolving power dynamics within the royal family have historical parallels, as seen in the Queen Mother's struggles with relinquishing authority after King George's passing.

Christopher Warwick, another royal biographer, noted the complexities of familial dynamics and envy within the monarchy.

Navigating the new landscape, Sophie driving Meghan to Westminster Hall for the Lying in State service was a notable decision.

The upcoming funeral service at Westminster Abbey will see Sophie and Meghan traveling together, accompanied by their husbands.

The once-close relationship between William, Kate, Harry, and Meghan, known as the Fab Four, has shifted, with underlying tensions surfacing despite their shared charitable endeavors.

Contrary to public perception, Meghan and Kate's relationship has not blossomed as expected, as detailed in the 2020 biography “Finding Freedom.”

The intricate web of royal protocols and personal dynamics continues to shape interactions within the Firm.

As the royal family grapples with transitions and uncertainties, the future of Meghan and Kate's relationship remains a subject of intrigue and speculation.