Meghan Markle was told she "should be quiet" if she doesn't want to become the center of attention at Prince Philip's funeral. Her friends said that this was the real reason she didn't join Prince Harry, who is now back in London to pay his final respects to his grandfather.

Royal author Angela Levin said that Meghan's latest statement was "patronizing and grandiose" when she should "instinctively take a back seat" if not attracting media attention is what she really wanted. Levin said she's astonished that someone who barely spent time with the royal family could think that the people's eyes will be on her if she was to attend the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral.

The royal expert was reacting to a news story from Daily Mail, which quoted Meghan's friends as they explained her decision to stay put in the United States. Her pals also said that Meghan is ready to set her differences aside and forgive the royal family if it meant they will be united in their grief over Philip's loss.

However, Meghan Markle has not confirmed if she actually said she didn't want take the attention away from the funeral. The only official statements she has made about Philip is on the Archewell website, her foundation with Harry.

Meghan tried to make the trip but her doctor said she can't fly in her delicate condition. The Duchess of Sussex is due to give birth in June for her second child with Harry.

According to reports, Meghan will begin her maternity leave in four weeks and Harry will come back to the U.S. immediately after the funeral. The Duke of Sussex is believed to be staying at Frogmore Cottage, his home in London, and will take a COVID-19 test before seeing the rest of his family.

Reports cited that Harry has only been in contact with his cousin, Princess Eugenie, since she and her family have occupied Harry and Meghan's home. He has yet to see Queen Elizabeth in person as he has not yet come up Windsor Castle, which is nearby Frogmore Cottage.

Meanwhile, Meghan Markle said that all she really wants is for Harry to mend things with his family now that he's home again after their interview with Oprah Winfrey. However, Levin doesn't think there will be a chance for Harry to discuss personal issues with his family if he has to return to his pregnant wife as soon as possible.