This could be the first move to end heartbreaking rift

MEGHAN SET TO MEET UP WITH HER DAD

MEGHAN Markle is said to be poised to heal the rift with her dad – at a secret showdown in the US in three weeks.

A source claims Thomas, 74 – who pulled out of the Royal Wedding on health grounds two months ago – is understood to be “keeping two dates free at the end of the month” to meet his daughter.

Friends believe it could be the first move to end the heartbreaking family rift which has plagued the Duchess of Sussex since her big day in May.

Thomas, who reportedly suffered a heart attack after selling paparazzi pictures to the press, is said to be “delighted” that Meghan wants to bury the hatchet as his physical health continues to cause concern.

The source said: “The possibility of a reunion has been discussed and Meghan looks set to incorporate it into her trip.

“Thomas is apparently keeping two dates free at the end of the month with a view to travelling from his home in Mexico to LA to meet his daughter.

“The location and exact dates will be top secret for both their sakes. It is a very sensitive time for them, but the intent seems to be to heal the rift.”

The pair have been estranged since earlier this year and are said to have only exchanged texts since her May 19 wedding to Prince Harry.

HEALTH

The relationship soured when Thomas was caught staging paparazzi pics the week before her nuptials.

The snaps – showing her dad being measured for a wedding suit and looking at news stories about the couple online – were reported to have sold for £100,000.

Just days later, Thomas dropped out of the royal wedding citing health reasons, with Prince Charles walking Meghan down the aisle instead.

Thomas then gave a controversial interview on ITV’S Good Morning Britain in which he appeared to break royal protocol by revealing private details of a phone call with Prince Harry.

He also hinted at Harry’s alleged political views – saying the Prince thought Donald Trump should be “given a chance”.

In the TV chat, Thomas also told how Meghan was desperate to start a family with her new husband, saying:

The dates will be kept secret, but the intent for both is to heal rift SOURCE AS MEGHAN PREPARES TO MEET DAD

“There’s got to be a child soon.” Meghan, who celebrated her 37th birthday yesterday, was said to be mortified by his outburst.

Last week, her dad further embarrassed her by claiming he couldn’t wish her happy birthday as she’d changed her phone number.

Our source said Meghan’s siblings Samantha and Thomas junior will not be at the meeting, and it is believed Prince Harry will not be present. The source added: “The plan is in early stages but Meghan seems to be tentatively moving towards meeting her father on her own.”

Meghan is also expected to visit a string of A-list friends while in America.

geraldine.mckelvie@trinitymirror.com