Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step away from the royal family was reportedly influenced by a photograph featuring Prince George, according to author Andrew Morton.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex had already suspected that the royal institution was working against them, but this particular image, which depicted Queen Elizabeth with King Charles, Prince William, and a 6-year-old Prince George in Buckingham Palace's throne room, served as a wake-up call.

Released at the start of 2020, just days before Harry and Meghan confirmed their plans to step down as working royals, the photo seemed innocent enough, aligning with the tradition of previous royal portraits.

However, it is alleged to have caused turmoil behind the scenes.

In his book “Meghan, A Hollywood Princess,” Morton wrote that the couple believed the entire situation was a conspiracy against them.

They felt that the evidence was all around them, and the unspoken message was clear: the future of the monarchy would thrive with or without Meghan and Harry.

Morton claimed that these fears were confirmed when Harry canceled a meeting with the Queen to discuss his royal future.

It was during this meeting that Harry suspected internal politics were at play, with his family concerned that any agreement made by the Queen would be used as a negotiating tactic by Harry.

Morton also revealed that Harry and Meghan had contemplated leaving the royal family earlier than the public had realized.

In a conversation with Oprah Winfrey in 2018, just six months after their wedding, they were already considering a different path.

Ironically, they had been given the opportunity to represent the younger generation as youth ambassadors to William and Catherine, effectively allowing them to focus on the rest of the world while leaving the responsibilities of the UK, where they would eventually become heads of state, to others.

In January 2020, the couple officially announced their decision to step back from Buckingham Palace.

Their statement mentioned months of reflection and internal discussions, leading them to carve out a new progressive role within the institution.

They expressed their intention to become financially independent while continuing to support Queen Elizabeth.

The couple also revealed their plan to divide their time between the UK and North America, raising their son with an appreciation for his royal heritage while pursuing their own charitable endeavors.

Buckingham Palace responded to their announcement by stating that discussions were in the early stages and that there were complex issues to address.

The palace understood Harry and Meghan's desire for a different approach but acknowledged that resolving these matters would take time.

As for the speculation surrounding Meghan's motives, some suggest that she may be jealous of the future coronation role of the Cambridge family, which could explain her alleged attempts to humiliate them.

However, this remains a matter of opinion and speculation.

In conclusion, the photograph featuring Prince George was a turning point for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, solidifying their belief that the royal institution was working against them.

It prompted them to reevaluate their role within the family and eventually led to their decision to step back from their royal duties.

Their departure marked a significant change in the dynamics of the monarchy, and only time will tell how their new path unfolds.