Chapter 63 – The Rough Start of 2020

2020 began in a tumultuous way for Harry Potter. While the world was dealing with global uncertainties, for Harry, the start of the new year brought a personal weight that he had not expected. He had built a close relationship with the British royal family, especially with Prince William and Kate, and although he had always maintained a reserved attitude, he could not ignore what was happening around him.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, after months of tension and internal conflict, made the decision to step away from the royal family. The official announcement of their departure, known as "Megxit", shook the United Kingdom and, even more so, family relations. Harry himself observed closely the impact that this decision had, especially between his brothers, William and Harry. The tension between them, previously kept out of the spotlight, was now something that could no longer be hidden.

One day in January, Harry was in a private room at Kensington Palace, where he had been called for a discreet meeting with Prince William. Even though he was there to deal with security issues, Harry couldn't help but notice the heavy mood that hung in the air. William seemed more serious than usual, his expression carrying a mixture of sadness and frustration.

"Harry, I'm glad you could come," William said as he greeted him, but the tone of his voice was far from his usual.

"Whenever you need," Harry replied, sitting down next to William, who was standing near the fireplace, watching the flames with a distant look.

For a few moments, neither of them said anything. It was obvious that William was processing something much bigger than any security issue. Harry knew his friend was suffering, and that wasn't easy to see. Even though he was an elite operator used to dealing with complex situations, seeing William in this state affected him.

Finally, William broke the silence.

"My brother... he really is gone," William said, his voice full of resentment and, at the same time, sadness. "And with him, part of our family fell apart."

Harry knew this was a sensitive issue. William and Harry had always had a close relationship, but the pressures of the media and the differing expectations within the royal family had created a rift between them in recent times. Prince Harry and Meghan's decision to step back from royal duties seemed to be the final straw.

"I'm sorry this happened, William. I know this isn't easy for you, or for the family," Harry replied sincerely, trying to offer some support.

William sighed, running a hand through his hair as he looked at his friend.

"I tried, you know? I tried to keep him close, to help him find a balance. But he made a decision and never looked back. Now it feels like we're strangers to each other."

Harry sensed the depth of the family conflict William was facing. He knew that the responsibilities of royalty were heavy and that family bonds, even between the closest, could fray under such pressure.

"He's trying to find his own way. Maybe in time you can talk and work things out. Families go through hard times, but there's always a chance to rebuild those bonds,"

Harry suggested, hoping to bring some comfort to the prince. William shook his head, but it was clear that at the moment he didn't see an easy solution.

"Maybe, but right now… it's hard to see that. He and Meghan made their choices, and now we're dealing with the consequences. It affects not just us, but the entire institution."

They spent a few more minutes arguing, but Harry knew there was little he could say to ease William's pain. He understood all too well the consequences of life choices and how they impacted those around them, especially in situations where duty and family are so intricately intertwined.

As they said their goodbyes, William thanked Harry for being there and for the silent support he had offered. Kate, who had stopped by to offer a brief greeting, was also visibly shaken by the situation, but as always, she maintained the dignity and composure expected of a duchess.

"Thank you for being here, Harry," Kate said with a soft smile. "William greatly appreciates your friendship."

"Whenever he needs me, I'll be there," Harry replied firmly, before leaving the palace.

Back at his own home, Harry felt the weight of what he had witnessed. Although he had not been directly involved in the situation, he knew that Prince Harry and Meghan's decisions would impact the British royal family for many years to come. It was a painful reminder that no matter how strong family ties are, everyone is subject to the pressures of the outside world and personal choices.

Harry picked up his phone and saw a message from Kensi. It was a simple message, but it made him smile: "Hi, Ghost. Thinking of you."

As he typed a response, Harry reflected on how complicated relationships can be, and how, despite the tensions, it is possible to maintain connections that truly matter. 2020 had started off on a difficult note, but he knew that, just like his missions, everything could be overcome with patience, determination and, above all, hope for reconciliation.