Who is Gabriel Cortes and Florence from Suite Franaise and what is their importance?

Gabriel Cortes is a famous, wealthy author, who is filled with self-importance. He is a self-serving man, who feels himself entitled to special treatment. Cortes has been afforded a lot of public attention, and rather than be grateful, he expects it. He finds most common people vulgar, boorish and not worthy of his respect. He treats his mistress well, but expects her to be subservient and to follow along in his writing process, as if it were a magical journey for her, as well. Florence is Gabriel Cortes' mistress.