'Moments of communication': Body language expert on significance of William's gesture to Meghan

All eyes were on the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex during their unexpected walkabout at Windsor Castle, with many watching for signs of continuing tension between the brothers and their wives.

Instead, the joint appearance seemed as cooperative as it could have been, particularly following their shared heartbreak of the Queen's death.

Body language expert Judi James has confirmed this impression, telling The Mirror she witnessed a moment between Prince William and Meghan Markle that spoke of a 'truce' having been called.

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"There were moments of communication between the four, and it was obvious that this was William's decision and instigation," she told the publication.

"He led the choreography and he was the one to hold out an arm to gesture Meghan to join the group and be introduced to their host."

James also noted "mutual signs of reassurance" between Harry and Meghan, who had returned to the UK for a number of engagements, only to cancel them following Her Majesty's death.

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"Harry placed an arm around Meghan's back and rubbed it with his thumb, and Meghan returned the gesture when they chatted to the crowds," she observed, adding the couple "looked a little cautious about those crowds."

"Harry grew more comfortable and relaxed as he heard the love from the fans and something of the old Harry returned, including grins and more active chatting as he reached into the crowds to touch hands."

James didn't go as far as to suggest Prince William and Prince Harry's relationship is on the mend, particularly considering events leading up to this poignant moment.

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"Eye contact was minimal and chatting reserved to a very few words," she said, adding that on a scale of bonding it was on par with what we saw when the brothers unveiled a statue of their late mother Princess Diana in July 2021.

The brothers raced to their grandmother's bedside at Balmoral Castle in Scotland on Thursday September 8 (UK time), having been told of her ill health.

Her Majesty died at 96, with only King Charles and Princess Anne having arrived in time to see her before she passed away.

The family has since come together for a period of royal morning which will continue seven days after the funeral on September 19.

Harry and Meghan are expected to stay in the UK, with speculation they may fly their children Archie, three, and Lilibet, one, from their home in California to London to join them for the funeral, which will take place at Westminster Abbey.