The phone call that sparked Meghan Markle's estrangement from father Thomas

The relationship between Meghan and Thomas Markle seemingly becomes more fractured by the day, with the Duchess of Sussex now ‘refusing’ to speak to her father.

According to The Sun, Meghan’s three-month estrangement from Thomas Sr. began with a phone call the pair and Prince Harry shared while he was recovering from heart surgery.

The former lighting director, 74, claims the couple ‘disrespected’ him, with Harry telling him ignoring their advice not to talk to the paparazzi had landed him in a difficult position.

As a result of this conversation, Meghan, 36, decided her father needed “a bit of space” - and that she wanted to take some “time out” herself.

RELATED: Meghan Markle's mum Doria Ragland considering move to the UK

“Meghan loves Thomas and does want to maintain a relationship with him in the long run,” a source explains.

“She is adjusting to married life and her new role in the spotlight. Meghan is hopeful that things will get better, but it will take time. There is no quick fix.”

WATCH: Thomas Markle gave his first TV interview on Good Morning Britain. (Post continues.)

“I told her they wouldn't be able to come because they would never be able to afford the flight but that it would be a nice gesture on her part. Of course that didn't happen,” he said.

Thomas, who pulled out of the Royal Wedding just days beforehand, citing health problems - is also salty about the couple’s reaction to his request to make “a little speech” on the day.