Fanny

In Marseille, Marius and Fanny share a budding romance that grows from childhood friendship. Their connection deepens as they dream about the future before Marius leaves on his voyage.

Marius accepts a job aboard a research vessel and sets off on a five-year expedition. The separation begins a long absence that will test their bond.

Shortly after Marius's departure, Fanny discovers she is pregnant with his child. To avoid social shame and secure the child's future, her family pressures a sensible arrangement.

Fanny speaks with Panisse about marriage, and he remains eager to wed despite being a widower. He is excited by the prospect of having a child he couldn't have with his first wife.

César learns of the pregnancy but believes it will be best for the grandchild if Panisse raises the child. He supports the idea and helps arrange the forthcoming marriage.

Fanny and Panisse marry, and Fanny gives birth to a baby boy named Césariot. The baby is said to be premature, a claim the family accepts with a practiced smile as though true. César is named the godfather of the child.

César becomes the godfather of Césariot, binding the families together. The premature birth claim remains accepted by the community.

Several months later, Marius shows up at the bar in Marseille; his ship has problems and he volunteers to bring back scientific instruments to Paris for maintenance. This visit unsettles the status quo as he contemplates his future in Marseille.

Marius suspects Césariot might be his son and sets out to win Fanny back. He expresses homesickness and offers to stay in Marseille for the sake of their relationship.

Just as he nearly convinces Fanny to leave Panisse, César arrives and persuades them that it would be best for Césariot to remain Panisse's child. The moment reframes loyalties and family duties.

César escorts a dejected Marius to catch his train to Paris, effectively sealing the arrangement. The departure marks the end of Marius's chance with Fanny and his return to the old life.

Fanny remains with Panisse, and Marius leaves for Paris with a heavy heart. The outcome is bittersweet, with love unresolved but family ties preserved and the future secured for Césariot.