Vulfran Paindavoine, Perrine's grandfather, owns the Maraucourt cotton mill. A stern, authoritative figure, he rules the factory town through strict control, evoking fear among workers dependent on his goodwill. His family history is strained by vehement opposition to his son Edmond's marriage to Marie, a woman of Anglo-Indian heritage. This disapproval caused Edmond to sever contact, resulting in prolonged estrangement. Vulfran harbors deep resentment towards Marie, blaming her for Edmond's departure, and openly expresses hatred for her and Perrine without personal acquaintance.

Nearly blind from a prior stroke, Vulfran remains confined to his mansion. His visual impairment sharpens his auditory perception, allowing him to recognize individuals by voice and footsteps. This blindness extends metaphorically to his initial failure to recognize Perrine when she arrives in Maraucourt disguised as "Aurelie," seeking to understand his feelings towards her. He unknowingly hires his granddaughter for manual factory labor.

Interacting with "Aurelie," Vulfran undergoes significant change. Impressed by her competence and bilingual skills, he promotes her from pushing rail carts to serving as his personal interpreter and later his secretary. He grows increasingly reliant on her efficiency, loyalty, and compassion, valuing her constant companionship. This bond deepens dramatically upon news of Edmond's death in Bosnia, which triggers a severe grief-induced physical decline. Perrine's dedicated care during his convalescence aids his recovery, leading him to express gratitude for her "unconditional love," which he attributes to divine intervention.

His growing affection for "Aurelie" coincides with subtle suspicions about her identity. Françoise, Edmond's former nanny and Vulfran's confidante, observes Perrine's resemblance to Edmond and mentions it to him. This prompts Vulfran to dispatch his lawyer to investigate her background. Confirmation of her true identity as his granddaughter brings profound remorse for his past vitriol, particularly the hurtful remarks Perrine endured silently while serving him. Determined to atone, he arranges dangerous eye surgery specifically to see her face, symbolizing his emotional awakening. Post-recovery, he formally acknowledges Perrine as his heir and initiates worker welfare reforms, including daycare centers and healthier dormitories, culminating in a reconciled familial bond.

Professionally, Vulfran demonstrates strategic acumen and meticulous oversight of the factory. He distrusts his irresponsible nephew Theodor, the expected heir, and remains vigilant against internal mismanagement. His initial rigidity softens through Perrine's influence, leading him to address community injustices through his post-reconciliation welfare initiatives.