Prince Harry appears lost in thought, as no charm visible, after King Charles snub

Prince Harry's emotions were evident upon his return to America after a trip to Nigeria with Meghan Markle. 

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were seen at the airport in Los Angeles on Monday after a long 18-hour flight. Meghan led the way as they left the airport, with Harry following behind, appearing downcast.

Royal expert Tom Quinn said Harry seemed upset and suggested it could have been linked to his brief UK visit earlier this month. Harry had been hoping to visit his father King Charles during the trip, but it was reported the monarch was too busy.

Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, Tom said: "Harry tried desperately to put a brave face on it during his recent visit to the UK, but his real feelings were apparent when he landed back in Los Angeles. It was impossible not to see how downcast and upset he looked.

"And it's no surprise because he had hoped to see his father, and for a good deal longer than their 30-minute meeting last time he was in the UK." Harry previously returned to the UK in February, where he met with King Charles at Clarence House.

However, the father-and-son didn't reunite during Harry's UK trip earlier this month, with Harry returning to the UK for engagements relating to the Invictus Games. A spokesperson for Harry had said Charles was too busy to meet with his son.

In a statement, they said: "It unfortunately will not be possible due to His Majesty’'s full programme. The Duke of course is understanding of his father's diary of commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon."

However, conflicting reports have suggested the monarch did indeed offer to see his son, but was turned down by Harry. Sources have claimed Charles offered to let Harry stay in a royal residence for the trip, but this was turned down by Harry as he opted to stay in a hotel instead.

Charles is said to have made the suggestion because he knew Harry no longer had an official residence in the UK, The Sunday Times reported. Meghan and Harry were residents of Frogmore Cottage, but were evicted last year.