In a surprising twist, insiders report that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, are reportedly taking a break from each other. Amid public backlash, terminated business contracts, and strained familial ties, the couple's Californian dream seems to be encountering turbulence. As the two navigate through these troubled waters, sources indicate that Prince Harry, 38, will be journeying to Africa to find his footing, while Meghan, 41, remains in Hollywood to pursue her ambitions of stardom.

According to a palace insider, "The break was expected. Harry's never truly fit into Meghan's glamorous Hollywood circle. He went along with her aspirations to become a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, but he seemed to lose himself along the way. This temporary separation could be the key for them to reconcile their differences and emerge stronger."

The couple, parents to Prince Archie, 4, and Princess Lilibet, 2, are apparently in dire need of a reset following a series of PR disasters. From a Spotify executive branding them "grifters" and terminating their $20 million deal to being accused of fabricating a high-speed car chase incident in NYC, the couple has faced harsh criticism.

As Prince Harry gears up to film a documentary in Africa - part of their dwindling $100 million Netflix deal, Meghan will not accompany him. She has reportedly taken up the advice to carve her solo path in the industry. "Meghan has a new super-agent. She's determined to build her brand and accumulate wealth - independently," reveals royal commentator Daniela Elser.

Rumors are rife about their marriage hitting choppy waters. "Meghan is typically seen holding Harry's hand, but she's been conspicuously absent since his controversial memoir, 'Spare,' was released," a palace source commented.

Royal biographer Angela Levin echoes these speculations, suggesting that their marriage might have "badly disintegrated," and predicting a slow separation on Meghan's part. "She is strategically planning to ensure she gets custody of their children. He's isolated from his family and friends," Levin elaborates.

Harry's friends, repulsed by his attacks on his family, have distanced themselves from the prince. His reputation also suffered a blow in a London High Court case, where he confessed to having no proof to back up his hacking accusations.

A palace insider states, "Their dismissal from Spotify was a turning point. Harry is out of his depth, staring at a complex future."

The significant costs of their grand Californian lifestyle, coupled with their mental health issues, have allegedly pushed them towards this trial separation. The insider suggests, "This time apart across continents could offer them the space to find what they need for the next stage - whether that's together or separate."