Charlotte was adopted and made legitimate. That option is no longer available after the 2002 change. Neither is automatic heir status by a 'natural' child. They must be legitimate by their parents having married.
Camille is not an heir because her mother never married her father. Pauline and Louis are in line and legitimate because Stephanie married Daniel (although after their birth and they later divorced).
Albert knows he will not marry Nicole, therefore Eric (his name is not officially Alexandre, the papers regarding NC's legal case refer to him as Eric Alexandre Coste) remains illegitimate and out of line to the throne.
Yes, Eric is currently the only direct offspring of Albert. However, the next legitimate heir to the throne is Caroline, following by Andrea, Pierre, Charlotte, Alexandra, Stephanie, Louis and finally Pauline.
And on Albert spending time with Eric. He has a full schedule of commitments. Nicole can make things difficult for him to see Eric on what few days he has available no matter the custody arrangement. True, she gets a generous montly stipend, a home, a nanny and security staff, but there will always be 'something' she can arrange to keep Albert from his son.
I truly think Albert would spend as much time as he could with Eric if Nicole would let him. But then how would she be able to run to the press and claim neglect?
Ann
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