Prince Harry's feelings towards 'security blanket' Meghan Markle undergo major shift

Royal sources suggest that the Duke of Sussex is returning to his "old self" during his most recent engagements.

Harry, 40, has attended a string of events alone, including a brief trip to the UK and a visit to South Africa, whilst Meghan remained in California with their children.

A source claimed: "Ever since moving to America, it's taken Harry a long time to feel comfortable and confident enough to go out on his own and he is really enjoying this new way of life."

The source revealed that Harry previously relied on Meghan as a "security blanket" whilst adjusting to his new role in America.

"Before he always used Meghan as a bit of a security blanket as he felt quite lost in his new role, which was completely different to his old royal life and what he had been used to," the insider explained.

However, the duke appears to be embracing independence. The source continued to tell OK!: "He realises now he doesn't need Meghan like he used to and that it's healthy for them to not do everything together."

Harry's solo engagements have been met with praise, including his brief London visit for the WellChild Awards where he interacted with children.

The duke's trip to South Africa comes just weeks before his brother Prince William's scheduled visit for the Earthshot Prize awards ceremony in Cape Town.

Harry's solo travels have highlighted his concerns about family safety in Britain.

He told ITV earlier this year: "It's still dangerous, and all it takes is one lone actor... whether it's a knife or acid, whatever it is, and these are things that are of genuine concern for me."

This explains why Meghan and their children have not accompanied him to the UK, as the Sussexes lost their royal protection service after moving to the US.

Despite their separate appearances, Harry and Meghan continue to pursue individual professional interests.

The couple are both working on new Netflix shows, with Meghan's project celebrating cooking, gardening, and friendship, whilst Harry's focuses on professional polo.

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A source explained: "Everyone always says Harry has Diana's charm and that she would be so proud of him and the work he's been doing lately.

"It was tough at first going away without Meghan but he's really coming into his own and he wants to do more solo events and travelling.

"He feels a lot more relaxed and like his old self and it's showing to everyone around him."