My Secret Billionaire Husband Chapter 2886 - 2416: Maybe It’s a Surprise for You Guys

"No, I cannot take an extended leave. It would significantly disrupt everyone else's work progress. I cannot have them waiting on my account. Mom, the filming duration is quite short, at most half a month, and then I can return to see you."

Madam White still appeared hesitant and let out a sigh. "I believe your work shouldn't be prioritized to such an extent. You previously mentioned your intentions to conceive a child with Ashton Heath. However, if you are constantly occupied with filming television series and participating in variety shows, how can you two, as a young couple, have a child when you spend so little time together?"

"You ought to rest more at home."

"I understand, I understand." Joanna Lawrence quickly nodded. "Following the completion of this shoot, I will take some time off. Mom, are you eager to hold a grandchild? Do not fret; I believe you might have one quite soon."

Madam White was taken aback and her gaze immediately shifted to her daughter's abdomen.

"I am not pregnant." Fearing a misunderstanding by Madam White, Joanna hastily clarified, "I meant that perhaps Gary's child will arrive before mine."

"Gary?" Madam White's brow furrowed. "What are you referring to? He doesn't have a woman by his side; how can there possibly be a child?"

Joanna: "Did Gary not inform you?"

"Inform me of what?" Madam White's expression was one of puzzlement.

"Gary has a girlfriend now. Furthermore, he intends to introduce her when he returns home this time. He conveyed to me that, absent any unforeseen circumstances, this young lady would become my future sister-in-law and, consequently, your future daughter-in-law."

Madam White was utterly astonished, surprised beyond measure.

"What did you just say?" Her astonishment was so profound that coherent speech became a challenge, and she stammered, "Are you stating that Gary now has a girlfriend?"

"Yes," Joanna confirmed with a nod.

"Is this truly the case?" Madam White still appeared skeptical, her eyes wide with shock. "Joanna, are you jesting with me? Does Gary genuinely have a girlfriend? And is he planning to bring her with him upon his return home this time?"

"It is the truth. Mom, why would I deceive you?" Joanna inquired with a smile. "In any event, that is precisely what Gary informed me. He should not be misleading me, nor is there any conceivable reason for him to do so."

It took Madam White a considerable moment to seem to accept the information, and a look of pure joy gradually spread across her face, her eyes gleaming.

She appeared exceptionally delighted. "That is wonderful news! I have been concerned about Gary's marital status for so many years; it had become a significant worry for me. I feared he might opt against marriage as he aged. If he truly intends to bring someone home, we must extend a warm welcome and treat her with utmost kindness."

"We cannot allow them to perceive the White family as unapproachable or your father and me as difficult individuals, thereby frightening them away."

Madam White had harbored aspirations of welcoming a daughter-in-law for numerous years, and now, finally, there was a glimmer of hope. She was filled with a blend of excitement and happiness, akin to experiencing immense fortune.

"Gary is quite the scamp, not informing me of such momentous news. Is he concerned that your father and I might disapprove?"

Joanna considered this for a moment before responding, "Perhaps he wishes to present you with a surprise."

"It is indeed a surprise," Madam White's smile was so broad it seemed her mouth would split. "After enduring such a long wait, my wish has finally been granted. I am immensely curious about the character of Gary's girlfriend. However, given Gary's discerning nature, any girl he fancies must surely be exceptional."