According to royal expert Rebecca English, when Charles turned 75 last year, Harry rang up his dad, but the fact that the conversation and details of their call hit the news was a sore spot for the king. English explained that Charles was happy to call his son this year, but is still being careful with everything between himself and Harry.

And though Harry’s “rift” with Prince William isn’t mended, the king is “hopeful” their own relations will “evolve.”

Royal relations have reached a fresh nadir, with the sending of birthday wishes to Prince Harry by King Charles and Prince William’s offices on Sunday revealed to be a triumph of performative style over meaningful substance.