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Illustrated portrait of Bertrand

A character in A Certain Smile

Bertrand

Dominique’s young boyfriend and Luc’s nephew, whose presence makes the affair a betrayal as well as an experiment.

What they want in Dominique’s account

To continue his relationship with Dominique inside the student life they already share, without knowing how far her attention has moved elsewhere.

The book

Cover of A Certain Smile by Françoise Sagan
A Certain SmileFrançoise Sagan, 1956

A young Paris student agrees to a temporary affair and learns that emotional detachment cannot be guaranteed in advance.

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At a glance

Role
Dominique’s boyfriend
Family
Luc’s nephew
Function
Links Dominique to Luc and raises the stakes of the affair

Who they are in the book

Spoiler-free

Bertrand belongs to Dominique’s familiar student world. She feels affection for him, but that familiarity also becomes part of the boredom she wants to escape.

He is less worldly than Luc, and the contrast helps Dominique imagine the affair as a step into adult freedom.

How the book draws them

Appearance, manner, and tone — as the book sketches them, in our words.

  • Young male studentHe belongs visibly to Dominique’s generation.
  • Open faceHe appears less guarded than Luc.
  • Casual mid-century clothesThe clothing fits university Paris.
  • Unforced postureHe has not cultivated Luc’s practiced ease.
  • Close engraved bustNo books or campus scenery appear.
  • Muted olive accentThe color keeps him distinct from Luc.
What happens to BertrandHow the book leaves them, what happened after, and what the record says. Open when you're ready.

Dominique’s affair with Luc ends her belief that her relationship with Bertrand can remain emotionally uncomplicated.

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