When I was at Bruchet's shop there was a started, and proofed, but, never completed, double rifle (O/U) that was offered to me. It would have been a great deal, as it was chambered in 30-06, and was illegal to own in Europe. The gun was marked Guy Ripamonte, but, had it been finished up it would have been marked Bruchet.
There was lots of wheeling and dealing between the smaller makers on stuff. The Bruchet's bought a double rifle action as a rough forging from Mr. Demas when I was there. They had an order for a rifle of some sort.
They also used SKB O/U rifle actions from time to time, to keep the cost down.
It would have been no big deal to have a triggerguard made for your gun with a V on it, in St. Etienne. Not saying that is what happened, but, that gun would seem to have started out in Belguim, and ended up in France, so, it probably is what happened.
Do enjoy. Seems like a wonderful Christmas gift for you. I hope it works out well, and you don't have to sell it anytime soon. It is easier to buy a French gun than to sell it.
Best,
Ted