Bel et bien is used to strenghten an assertion when there was an uncertainty about the fact, I believe “actually” is the closest English translation and perhaps na realidade in Portuguese.
Elle s’est bel et bien échappée.
(We didn’t think she will do it but) she actually escaped.
On a bel et bien obtenu son assentiment.
(We thought we wouldn’t but) we actually got their agreement.
In your example
Christian était bel et bien mécontent.
(We thought he was not affected but) Christian was actually unhappy.
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