Fluent Fiction - Croatian: A Reunion Under Zagreb's Winter Spell: Coming Home
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-23-23-34-02-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: Zagreb je obavijen bijelim pokrivačem zime.
En: Zagreb is covered in a white blanket of winter.

Hr: Snijeg prekriva ulice, a hladan zrak nosi miris cimeta i kuhanog vina.
En: Snow covers the streets, and the cold air carries the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine.

Hr: Grad diše sporije, kao da sanja o prošlim vremenima.
En: The city breathes more slowly, as if dreaming of times past.

Hr: Na Tkalčićevoj ulici, veliki božićni sajam privlači mještane i turiste.
En: On Tkalčićeva Street, a large Christmas fair attracts locals and tourists.

Hr: Lampice sjaje, a štandovi nude rukotvorine i razne delicije.
En: Lights shine, and the stalls offer handicrafts and various delicacies.

Hr: Ivan se polako kreće kroz gužvu.
En: Ivan moves slowly through the crowd.

Hr: Vratio se iz inozemstva nakon dugo vremena.
En: He has returned from abroad after a long time.

Hr: Radi u velikoj firmi i njegov život je stalno u pokretu.
En: He works in a large company, and his life is constantly on the move.

Hr: No, sada je ovdje, između toplog svjetla i poznatih mirisa, osjeća nostalgiju.
En: But now he is here, between the warm lights and familiar scents, feeling nostalgic.

Hr: Gleda oko sebe.
En: He looks around himself.

Hr: Sjeti se prošlih Božića provedenih u Zagrebu.
En: He remembers past Christmases spent in Zagreb.

Hr: Ana, vesela i uvijek nasmijana, šeta među štandovima.
En: Ana, cheerful and always smiling, strolls among the stalls.

Hr: Uživa u žamoru i dobroj energiji oko sebe.
En: She enjoys the chatter and good energy around her.

Hr: Sjeća se Ivana i njihovih zajedničkih trenutaka.
En: She remembers Ivan and their shared moments.

Hr: Iznenada, u gužvi, ugleda njegovo poznato lice.
En: Suddenly, in the crowd, she spots his familiar face.

Hr: "Ivane!
En: "Ivane!

Hr: ", vikne s osmijehom.
En: ", she shouts with a smile.

Hr: Ivan se okrene, prepozna prijateljicu iz djetinjstva.
En: Ivan turns around and recognizes his childhood friend.

Hr: "Ana!
En: "Ana!"

Hr: " Iznenađeni su, ali radosni zbog slučajnog susreta.
En: They are surprised but happy about the chance encounter.

Hr: Razmjenjuju kratke priče o posljednjim godinama.
En: They exchange brief stories about the past few years.

Hr: Ivan osjeti kako je razgovor s Anom kao da nikada nije otišao.
En: Ivan feels that talking with Ana is as if he never left.

Hr: "Kako si, Ivane?
En: "How are you, Ivane?"

Hr: ", pita ga Ana s iskrenom znatiželjom.
En: Ana asks him with genuine curiosity.

Hr: "Dobro sam", odgovori Ivan, no u njegovom glasu čuje se neodlučnost.
En: "I'm fine," Ivan answers, but indecision can be heard in his voice.

Hr: Zna da nešto nedostaje.
En: He knows something is missing.

Hr: Osjeća se izgubljeno i daleko od doma.
En: He feels lost and far from home.

Hr: "Fali mi Zagreb", prizna potiho.
En: "I miss Zagreb," he admits quietly.

Hr: Ana ga nježno pogleda.
En: Ana looks at him gently.

Hr: "Zagrebu fališ ti", kaže ona toplo.
En: "Zagreb misses you," she says warmly.

Hr: Pričaju o starim zajedničkim sjećanjima.
En: They talk about old shared memories.

Hr: Ana mu pokazuje novi štand s pravim domaćim paprenjacima i hrvatkim poslasticama.
En: Ana shows him a new stall with real homemade gingerbread and Croatian treats.

Hr: Ivan polako otkriva ljepotu trenutaka ovdje i sada.
En: Ivan slowly discovers the beauty of moments here and now.

Hr: "Zagrebački zrak je poseban", kaže, uvjeren da Tkalčićeva ulica nikada nije bila ljepša.
En: "Zagreb's air is special," he says, convinced that Tkalčićeva Street has never been more beautiful.

Hr: Stoje ispod svjetlucavih lampica.
En: They stand under the sparkling lights.

Hr: Ivan shvaća da ovdje pripada.
En: Ivan realizes he belongs here.

Hr: "Možda ostanem još malo", kaže s osmijehom.
En: "Maybe I'll stay a little longer," he says with a smile.

Hr: Ana je sretna.
En: Ana is happy.

Hr: "To bi bilo divno", kaže.
En: "That would be wonderful," she says.

Hr: Osjeća se ponovo povezana s dragim prijateljem.
En: She feels reconnected with her dear friend.

Hr: Ivan odluči dočekati Novu godinu u Zagrebu.
En: Ivan decides to welcome the New Year in Zagreb.

Hr: Dok snježne pahulje nježno lepršaju, Ivan osjeti toplinu u srcu.
En: As snowflakes gently flutter down, Ivan feels warmth in his heart.

Hr: Ponovno otkriva ljubav prema rodnom gradu.
En: He rediscovers his love for his hometown.

Hr: Ivanova i Anina prijateljstva se obnavlja, jače nego ikad.
En: Ivan and Ana's friendship is renewed, stronger than ever.

Hr: Sve je na mjestu, snijeg, lampice, prijatelji.
En: Everything is in place: the snow, the lights, the friends.

Hr: Zagreb ga ponovo pozdravlja raširenih ruku.
En: Zagreb welcomes him once again with open arms.


Vocabulary Words:

• blanket: pokrivač
• mulled: kuhanog
• carries: nosi
• breathes: diše
• attracts: privlači
• stall: štand
• handicrafts: rukotvorine
• delicacies: delicije
• crowd: gužva
• abroad: inozemstvo
• nostalgic: nostalgiju
• chatter: žamoru
• indecision: neodlučnost
• gently: nježno
• flutter: lepršaju
• reconnected: ponovo povezana
• welcomes: pozdravlja
• admit: prizna
• genuine: iskrenom
• treats: poslasticama
• rediscovers: ponovno otkriva
• familiar: poznatih
• shared: zajedničkih
• stories: priče
• sparkling: svjetlucavih
• energy: energiji
• genuine: iskrenom
• indecision: neodlučnost
• beauty: ljepotu
• realizes: shvaća

Fluent Fiction - Croatian: Finding Joy in a Winter Wonderland: A Christmas Tale in Dubrovnik
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-23-08-38-20-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: Dubrovnik, zimska bajka.
En: Dubrovnik, a winter fairy tale.

Hr: Snježne pahulje padale su lagano, pokrivajući stari kamen i stvarajući čaroban ugođaj.
En: Snowflakes were gently falling, covering the old stones and creating a magical atmosphere.

Hr: Ivana je šetala starim gradom, uživajući u toplini božićnih lampica i mirisu kuhanog vina.
En: Ivana was walking through the old town, enjoying the warmth of Christmas lights and the smell of mulled wine.

Hr: Slavlje i radost vladali su svakim kutkom.
En: Celebration and joy filled every corner.

Hr: Božićni sajam nudio je rukotvorine, tradicijske kolače i veselu glazbu.
En: The Christmas market offered handicrafts, traditional cakes, and cheerful music.

Hr: Ivana je putovala sama.
En: Ivana was traveling alone.

Hr: Nedavno se rastala od dugogodišnjeg dečka i nada se da će u Dubrovniku pronaći malo mira i zaboraviti tugu.
En: She had recently broken up with her long-term boyfriend and hoped to find some peace in Dubrovnik and forget her sorrow.

Hr: Dok je hodala kamenitim ulicama, uživala je u svakom trenutku.
En: As she walked the cobblestone streets, she enjoyed every moment.

Hr: Svijet prošlih problema činio se dalekim.
En: The world of past problems seemed distant.

Hr: Odjednom, Ivana je stala na neravni kamen.
En: Suddenly, Ivana stepped on an uneven stone.

Hr: Osjetila je oštru bol koja se širila gležnjem.
En: She felt a sharp pain spreading through her ankle.

Hr: Pala je na koljeno.
En: She fell to her knee.

Hr: Htjela je ustati, ali bol je bila prejaka.
En: She wanted to get up, but the pain was too strong.

Hr: Ljudi oko nje hodali su dalje, uživajući u atmosferi, ali Ivana je bila sama i ozlijeđena.
En: People around her kept walking, enjoying the atmosphere, but Ivana was alone and injured.

Hr: Marko, mladić s osmijehom koji osvaja, primijetio je Ivanu u nevolji.
En: Marko, a young man with a winning smile, noticed Ivana in distress.

Hr: Krenuo je prema njoj.
En: He approached her.

Hr: "Trebate pomoć?" upitao je ljubazno.
En: "Do you need help?" he asked kindly.

Hr: Ivana je neodlučno kimnula glavom.
En: Ivana hesitantly nodded.

Hr: Osjećala se bespomoćno, a nije voljela tražiti pomoć.
En: She felt helpless and didn't like asking for help.

Hr: Marko je pomogao Ivani do klupe.
En: Marko helped Ivana to a bench.

Hr: Sjeo je pored nje i upitao: "Jeste li u redu?"
En: He sat next to her and asked, "Are you okay?"

Hr: Ivana je uzdahnula.
En: Ivana sighed.

Hr: "Samo sam htjela zaboraviti na stvari, ali sada ovo...," rekla je, pokazujući gležanj.
En: "I just wanted to forget about things, but now this...," she said, pointing to her ankle.

Hr: "Zbilja mi treba malo božićnog duha."
En: "I really need a bit of Christmas spirit."

Hr: Marko se nasmiješio.
En: Marko smiled.

Hr: "Znam kako vam je, ali niste sami.
En: "I know how you feel, but you're not alone.

Hr: Tu sam da pomognem."
En: I'm here to help."

Hr: Duboko je udahnula, osjećajući se lakše.
En: She took a deep breath, feeling relieved.

Hr: Njegova briga i toplina bili su utješni.
En: His concern and warmth were comforting.

Hr: S vremenom, Marko je pronašao kolica koja je iznajmio za Ivanu.
En: In time, Marko found a wheelchair that he rented for Ivana.

Hr: "Idemo istražiti grad, samo na drugi način," rekao je veselo.
En: "Let's explore the city, just in a different way," he said cheerfully.

Hr: Ivana se nasmijala prvi put tog dana.
En: Ivana laughed for the first time that day.

Hr: Skupa su obilazili ključna mjesta, uživali u prizorima i zvucima grada.
En: Together, they visited key spots, enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.

Hr: Razgovarali su o svemu i svačemu, zaboravljajući na vrijeme.
En: They talked about everything and nothing, forgetting about the time.

Hr: Kada je dan završio, Ivana je shvatila da se osjeća bolje.
En: When the day ended, Ivana realized she felt better.

Hr: "Hvala ti, Marko," rekla je, osjećajući toplinu.
En: "Thank you, Marko," she said, feeling warmth.

Hr: "Ovo mi je stvarno trebalo."
En: "I really needed this."

Hr: "Bilo je zadovoljstvo," odgovorio je Marko.
En: "It was my pleasure," Marko replied.

Hr: "Božić je za dijeljenje, zar ne?"
En: "Christmas is for sharing, right?"

Hr: Ivana je shvatila da primanje pomoći nije slabost, nego snaga zajedništva.
En: Ivana realized that accepting help is not a weakness, but a strength of togetherness.

Hr: U toj zimskoj magiji Dubrovnika, otkrila je iskrenu sreću i osjećaj pripadnosti.
En: In that winter magic of Dubrovnik, she discovered genuine happiness and a sense of belonging.


Vocabulary Words:

• snowflakes: pahulje
• gently: lagano
• cobblestone: kamenitim
• uneven: neravni
• spread: širila
• anxious: neodlučno
• distant: dalekim
• celebration: slavlje
• handicrafts: rukotvorine
• hesitantly: neodlučno
• familiar: poznato
• solitude: samoća
• concern: briga
• atmosphere: ugođaj
• overcome: prevladati
• distress: nevolji
• reluctant: nevoljan
• wheelchair: kolica
• encouragement: ohrabrenje
• genuine: iskrena
• belonging: pripadnost
• sharp: oštra
• painful: bolna
• relieve: olakšati
• hesitate: oklijevati
• warmth: toplina
• joy: radost
• share: dijeliti
• strength: snaga
• comforting: utješni

Fluent Fiction - Croatian: The Inflatable Snowman: A Christmas Miracle at Zagrebački Market
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-22-23-34-02-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: Zagrebački božićni sajam blistao je u punom sjaju.
En: The Zagrebački Christmas market was shining in all its glory.

Hr: Svjetlucave lampice obasjavale su drvene štandove, a miris kuhanog vina i pečenih kestena širio se zrakom.
En: Sparkling lights illuminated the wooden stalls, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts filled the air.

Hr: Jasna je hodala od štanda do štanda, tražeći savršeni božićni ukras.
En: Jasna was walking from stall to stall, searching for the perfect Christmas ornament.

Hr: Njene oči sjajile su od uzbuđenja dok je zamišljala kako će ukrasiti svoj stan.
En: Her eyes gleamed with excitement as she imagined how she would decorate her apartment.

Hr: Jasna je primijetila šareni plakat na kojem je pisalo "Božićni ukrasi - Sniženje!"
En: Jasna noticed a colorful poster that read “Christmas Ornaments - Sale!”

Hr: Stanoviti Ivan, prodavač toplog osmijeha, stajao je iza štanda.
En: A certain Ivan, a vendor with a warm smile, stood behind the stall.

Hr: Njegova ljubaznost ulijevala je povjerenje.
En: His kindness inspired trust.

Hr: Jasna je opazila malu kutiju s crveno-bijelim snjegovićem na naslovnoj strani.
En: Jasna noticed a small box with a red and white snowman on the cover.

Hr: "Savršeno," pomislila je.
En: “Perfect,” she thought.

Hr: Od trenutne sreće, nije primijetila sitne znakove na kutiji.
En: In her moment of happiness, she didn’t notice the tiny signs on the box.

Hr: Bez dvoumljenja, Jasna je zgrabila kutiju i platila Ivanu.
En: Without hesitation, Jasna grabbed the box and paid Ivan.

Hr: Krenula je dalje, ali ubrzo je shvatila da nešto nije u redu.
En: She moved on, but soon realized something was wrong.

Hr: Kutija je postajala sve teža.
En: The box was getting heavier.

Hr: Petar, njezin prijatelj iz srednje škole, prišao joj je i ponudio pomoć.
En: Petar, her high school friend, approached her and offered help.

Hr: "Jasna, ta kutija izgleda prilično velika.
En: “Jasna, that box looks pretty big.

Hr: Jesi sigurna da ti treba?" upitao je s osmijehom.
En: Are you sure you need it?” he asked with a smile.

Hr: Jasna se nasmijala, ali pomalo nervozno.
En: Jasna laughed, but somewhat nervously.

Hr: "To je samo ukras, Petre.
En: “It’s just an ornament, Petar.

Hr: Sve je u redu."
En: Everything's fine.”

Hr: Kako su se probijali kroz gomilu, Jasna je zakoračila na sklizav komad leda.
En: As they pushed through the crowd, Jasna stepped on a slippery piece of ice.

Hr: Kutija joj je ispala iz ruku i otvorila se.
En: The box slipped from her hands and opened.

Hr: U trenu, golemi snjegović počeo se napuhavati usred tržnice.
En: In an instant, a giant snowman began inflating in the middle of the market.

Hr: Ljudi su se okrenuli i počeli se smijati, dok su djeca oduševljeno pokazivala.
En: People turned around and started laughing, while children excitedly pointed.

Hr: "Hvala Bogu, nije puknulo," pomislila je naglas.
En: “Thank God it didn’t pop,” she thought out loud.

Hr: S obzirom na situaciju, počela se smijati zajedno s ostalima.
En: Given the situation, she began to laugh along with everyone else.

Hr: Petar i Ivan priskočili su u pomoć, pomažući Jasni da deflacionira snjegovića i ugura ga u auto.
En: Petar and Ivan rushed to help, assisting Jasna in deflating the snowman and squeezing it into the car.

Hr: Bilo je to izazovno, ali uspjeli su.
En: It was challenging, but they succeeded.

Hr: Na povratku kući, Jasna je shvatila da bi ovaj nezgoda mogla biti upravo ono što treba za nezaboravnu božićnu zabavu.
En: On the way home, Jasna realized that this mishap might be just what she needed for an unforgettable Christmas party.

Hr: I tako je golemi snjegović zauzeo središnje mjesto u njezinu dnevnom boravku.
En: And so, the giant snowman took center stage in her living room.

Hr: Prijatelji su dolazili, diveći se velikom, smiješnom ukrasu.
En: Friends came, admiring the big, funny decoration.

Hr: Jasna je, s toplim osmijehom, shvatila da nije savršenstvo to što stvara čaroliju Božića, već smijeh i zajedništvo.
En: Jasna, with a warm smile, realized that it’s not perfection that creates the magic of Christmas, but laughter and togetherness.

Hr: Ove zime, Jasna je naučila cijeniti neočekivano i uživati u jednostavnosti trenutka.
En: This winter, Jasna learned to appreciate the unexpected and enjoy the simplicity of the moment.

Hr: Snjegović je postao njezin simbol opuštenosti, a Jasna — zvijezda svih božićnih okupljanja.
En: The snowman became her symbol of relaxation, and Jasna — the star of all Christmas gatherings.


Vocabulary Words:

• glory: sjaj
• scent: miris
• gleamed: sjajile
• ornament: ukras
• hesitation: dvoumljenje
• slippery: sklizav
• inflating: napuhavati
• deflating: deflacionirati
• mishap: nezgoda
• unforgettable: nezaboravna
• togetherness: zajedništvo
• appreciate: cijeniti
• unexpected: neočekivano
• simplicity: jednostavnost
• relaxation: opuštenost
• star: zvijezda
• illuminated: obasjavale
• stalls: štandovi
• mulled: kuhani
• roasted: pečenih
• poster: plakat
• vendor: prodavač
• trust: povjerenje
• nervously: nervozno
• crowd: gomilu
• slipped: ispala
• giant: golemi
• squeezing: ugura
• symbol: simbol
• admiring: divili

Fluent Fiction - Croatian: Overcoming Fear: Dario's Inspiring Christmas Speech
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-22-08-38-20-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: Bliži se Božić u malom gradu u Hrvatskoj.
En: Christmas is approaching in a small town in Hrvatska.

Hr: Školska dvorana blista u svjetlucavim lampicama.
En: The school hall sparkles with shimmering lights.

Hr: Veliko božićno drvce, bogato ukrašeno, stoji u sredini.
En: A large Christmas tree, richly decorated, stands in the center.

Hr: Dario promatra salu s ruba.
En: Dario observes the hall from the edge.

Hr: Srca mu lupa.
En: His heart is pounding.

Hr: Ivana stoji uz njega.
En: Ivana stands next to him.

Hr: "Možeš ti to", kaže mu nježno.
En: "You can do it," she says gently.

Hr: Ivana uvijek vjeruje u njega.
En: Ivana always believes in him.

Hr: Ona je njegova najbolja prijateljica od djetinjstva.
En: She has been his best friend since childhood.

Hr: Dario je tih i povučen, ali Ivana je glasna i otvorena.
En: Dario is quiet and withdrawn, but Ivana is loud and open.

Hr: Uz nju, Dario osjeća da može puno više nego što misli.
En: With her, Dario feels he can do much more than he thinks.

Hr: Na kraju školskog polugodišta, svi se okupljaju na proslavi.
En: At the end of the school semester, everyone gathers for the celebration.

Hr: Dario je odabran da održi govor.
En: Dario has been chosen to give a speech.

Hr: Ali on se boji.
En: But he is afraid.

Hr: Boji se pogreške, boji se publike.
En: Afraid of making a mistake, afraid of the audience.

Hr: "Što ako se osramotim?
En: "What if I embarrass myself?"

Hr: " pita Ivanu.
En: he asks Ivana.

Hr: "Vježbat ćemo zajedno", kaže Ivana.
En: "We'll practice together," says Ivana.

Hr: "Samo budi ono što jesi.
En: "Just be yourself.

Hr: Ljudi to žele čuti.
En: People want to hear that."

Hr: " S osmijehom, pomaže mu u pripremama.
En: With a smile, she helps him prepare.

Hr: Dani prolaze, a Dario čita naglas ispred Ivane.
En: Days pass, and Dario reads aloud in front of Ivana.

Hr: S vremenom, postaje sve sigurniji.
En: Over time, he becomes more confident.

Hr: Dolazi veliko večer.
En: The big night arrives.

Hr: Dario izlazi na pozornicu.
En: Dario steps onto the stage.

Hr: Dvorana je puna.
En: The hall is full.

Hr: Srce mu lupa, ali sjeća se Ivaninih riječi.
En: His heart pounds, but he remembers Ivana's words.

Hr: Počinje govor.
En: He begins his speech.

Hr: Prvo tiho, nesigurno.
En: At first, it's quiet, uncertain.

Hr: No, kako nastavlja, nešto se mijenja.
En: But as he continues, something changes.

Hr: Osjeća unutarnju snagu.
En: He feels an inner strength.

Hr: Njegove riječi postaju glasnije i jasnije.
En: His words become louder and clearer.

Hr: Publika sluša pažljivo.
En: The audience listens attentively.

Hr: Dario govori iz srca.
En: Dario speaks from the heart.

Hr: O prijateljstvu, školi, budućnosti.
En: About friendship, school, the future.

Hr: Kada završi, u dvorani zavlada tišina.
En: When he finishes, silence reigns in the hall.

Hr: A onda, aplauz.
En: And then, applause.

Hr: Glasni, iskreni aplauz.
En: Loud, sincere applause.

Hr: Dario stoji zbunjen, ali sretan.
En: Dario stands confused but happy.

Hr: Shvaća da je prevladao strah.
En: He realizes he has conquered his fear.

Hr: Osjeća se snažno, sigurno.
En: He feels strong, confident.

Hr: "Hvala", kima publici, a oči mu traže Ivanu.
En: "Thank you," he nods to the audience, his eyes searching for Ivana.

Hr: Nalazi je u publici, nasmiješenu i ponosnu.
En: He finds her in the audience, smiling and proud.

Hr: Te večeri, Dario postaje svjestan da može više nego što je mislio.
En: That evening, Dario becomes aware he can achieve more than he thought.

Hr: Ivana mu prilazi, tapše ga po ramenu.
En: Ivana approaches him, pats him on the shoulder.

Hr: "Rekla sam ti", smiješi se.
En: "I told you so," she smiles.

Hr: Dario uzvraća osmijehom.
En: Dario returns the smile.

Hr: Zajedno napuštaju pozornicu, dok njihovo prijateljstvo sada sjaji svjetlije nego ikad prije.
En: Together, they leave the stage, their friendship now shining brighter than ever before.


Vocabulary Words:

• approaching: bliži se
• sparkles: blista
• shimmering: svjetlucavim
• pounding: lupa
• withdrawn: povučen
• gathers: okupljaju
• celebration: proslavi
• mistake: pogreške
• embarrass: osramotim
• practice: vježbati
• uncertain: nesigurno
• attentively: pažljivo
• strength: snagu
• reigns: zavlada
• applause: aplauz
• conquered: prevladao
• achieve: postići
• confused: zbunjen
• smiling: nasmiješenu
• proud: ponosna
• aware: svjestan
• together: zajedno
• stage: pozornicu
• shining: sjaji
• friendship: prijateljstvo
• help: pomaže
• loud: glasna
• open: otvorena
• pat: tapše
• nods: kima

Fluent Fiction - Croatian: A Christmas Gift That Symbolizes True Connection
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-21-23-34-02-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: Bila je hladna zimska večer, a bijele pahulje snijega lagano su padale na zagrebačko tlo.
En: It was a cold winter evening, and white snowflakes were gently falling onto the Zagreb ground.

Hr: Božićni sajam na Trgu bana Jelačića bio je obasjan živopisnim lampicama koje su jednolično blješurale, stvarajući čarobnu atmosferu.
En: The Christmas market at Trg bana Jelačića was illuminated with colorful lights that blinked in unison, creating a magical atmosphere.

Hr: Ivana je hodala između drvenih kućica, probijajući se kroz gužvu.
En: Ivana walked between the wooden stalls, weaving through the crowd.

Hr: S lijeve strane mirisao je topli kuhani vin, a s desne strane vabile su je pečene kestene.
En: On her left, the scent of warm mulled wine wafted through the air, while on her right, roasted chestnuts beckoned her.

Hr: No, nju je zaokupila misao na savršen poklon za Matiju.
En: However, she was preoccupied with thoughts about the perfect gift for Matija.

Hr: Matija je bio poseban.
En: Matija was special.

Hr: Njegova strast prema umjetnosti bila je neizmjerna i Ivana je željela pronaći dar koji će u potpunosti odražavati njegovu kreativnu dušu.
En: His passion for art was immense, and Ivana wanted to find a gift that would fully reflect his creative soul.

Hr: "Samo slijedi svoje srce," rekao joj je Davor, njezin prijatelj iz djetinjstva.
En: "Just follow your heart," said Davor, her childhood friend.

Hr: On je bio praktičan, uvijek znao što reći kad je Ivana bila u nedoumici.
En: He was practical, always knowing what to say when Ivana was indecisive.

Hr: Ivana se nasmijala, zahvalna na njegovom savjetu.
En: Ivana laughed, grateful for his advice.

Hr: Dok je koračala dalje, Ivana je zastala ispred jednog malog, nenametljivog štanda.
En: As she continued walking, Ivana stopped in front of a small, unassuming stall.

Hr: Bila je to kućica ispunjena rukotvorinama.
En: It was a booth filled with handmade crafts.

Hr: Pogled joj je privukla jedna lijepo izrezbarena drvena kutija.
En: Her gaze was drawn to a beautifully carved wooden box.

Hr: Površina je bila oslikana nježnim bojama, a uzorci su se prelamali pod svjetlom lampica.
En: The surface was painted in soft colors, and patterns shimmered under the glow of the lights.

Hr: Ivana je u srcu osjetila da je to ono pravilo.
En: In her heart, Ivana felt that this was just right.

Hr: Nije samo kutija, već i simbol njezine povezanosti s Matijom.
En: It wasn't just a box, but a symbol of her connection with Matija.

Hr: Kupila je kutiju i nastavila šetati sa širokim osmijehom na licu.
En: She purchased the box and continued strolling with a wide smile on her face.

Hr: Došao je Božićni dan.
En: Christmas Day arrived.

Hr: Matija je s nestrpljenjem otvorio dar od Ivane.
En: Matija eagerly opened the gift from Ivana.

Hr: Kad je spazio kutiju, oči su mu zasvijetlile od iznenađenja i sreće.
En: When he noticed the box, his eyes lit up with surprise and happiness.

Hr: Rekao je da mu je to jedan od najljepših darova koje je ikad dobio.
En: He said it was one of the most beautiful gifts he had ever received.

Hr: Ivana je znala da je poslušala svoje srce ispravno.
En: Ivana knew she had followed her heart correctly.

Hr: Njezin dar nije bio samo predmet, već pažljivo biran znak ljubavi i razumijevanja.
En: Her gift was not just an object but a carefully chosen gesture of love and understanding.

Hr: Naučila je da pravo značenje darivanja nije u veličini ili cijeni, već u iskrenosti i vezi koju dar nosi.
En: She learned that the true meaning of giving lies not in the size or price, but in the sincerity and connection that the gift carries.

Hr: Sauntajući Trgom, osjećala se ispunjeno, shvaćajući da su njeni instinkti odabrali savršeno.
En: As she strolled around Trg, she felt fulfilled, realizing that her instincts had chosen perfectly.


Vocabulary Words:

• wafted: mirisao
• weaving: probijajući se
• mulled: kuhani
• beckoned: vabile
• preoccupied: zaokupila
• enormous: neizmjerna
• unison: jednolično
• unassuming: nenametljivog
• gaze: pogled
• carved: izrezbarena
• shimmered: prelamali
• crafted: rukotvorina
• illuminated: obasjan
• fulfilled: ispunjeno
• gestures: znak
• striding: koračala
• sincerity: iskrenosti
• childhood: djetinjstva
• instincts: instinkti
• thoughts: misao
• connection: povezanosti
• crowd: gužvu
• object: predmet
• advice: savjet
• eagerly: nestrpljenjem
• stalls: kućica
• empathy: razumijevanja
• creative: kreativnu
• blinked: blješurale
• soul: dušu

Fluent Fiction - Croatian: Chasing Frozen Dreams: Capturing the Perfect Winter Moment
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-21-08-38-20-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: Snijeg je nježno padao na šume Nacionalnog parka Plitvička jezera.
En: The snow gently fell on the forests of Nacionalni park Plitvička jezera.

Hr: Zrak je bio svjež, a zvuk koraka na snijegu bio je jedini prekid mirne tišine.
En: The air was fresh, and the sound of footsteps on the snow was the only interruption to the peaceful silence.

Hr: Karla, ljubiteljica prirode, uživala je u ovom zimskom raju.
En: Karla, a nature enthusiast, enjoyed this winter paradise.

Hr: Voljela je zimske pejzaže i tražila je bijeg od užurbanog života.
En: She loved winter landscapes and sought an escape from the hectic life.

Hr: Karla je imala misiju.
En: Karla had a mission.

Hr: Planirala je fotografirati smrznute slapove.
En: She planned to photograph the frozen waterfalls.

Hr: Sliku je trebala za izložbu, ali i za sebe.
En: She needed the picture for an exhibition, but also for herself.

Hr: Željela je mir i inspiraciju.
En: She sought peace and inspiration.

Hr: No, put do savršenog pogleda nije bio lagan.
En: However, the path to the perfect view was not easy.

Hr: Snijeg se previše nakupio, a njezin fotoaparat nije radio zbog hladnoće.
En: Too much snow had accumulated, and her camera wasn't working due to the cold.

Hr: No Karla nije bila sama.
En: But Karla was not alone.

Hr: S njom su bili njezini prijatelji, Milan i Ivana.
En: With her were her friends, Milan and Ivana.

Hr: Oni su je bodrili i pomagali joj.
En: They encouraged and helped her.

Hr: No, Karla je osjećala pritisak.
En: However, Karla felt the pressure.

Hr: Vrijeme je brzo prolazilo, a Božić je bio blizu.
En: Time was passing quickly, and Christmas was near.

Hr: Karla je donijela odluku.
En: Karla made a decision.

Hr: Krenula je manje poznatim i opasnijim putem.
En: She took a less known and more dangerous path.

Hr: Milan i Ivana išli su za njom, pažljivo koračajući.
En: Milan and Ivana followed her, stepping carefully.

Hr: Snijeg je bio dubok, ali Karla je bila odlučna.
En: The snow was deep, but Karla was determined.

Hr: Odjednom je stala.
En: Suddenly, she stopped.

Hr: Pogledala je oko sebe.
En: She looked around.

Hr: Pred njom su bili smrznuti slapovi.
En: In front of her were the frozen waterfalls.

Hr: Sunce je upravo obasjalo led.
En: The sun had just shone on the ice.

Hr: Zrak je bio ispunjen bojama.
En: The air was filled with colors.

Hr: Karla je brzo posegnula za telefonom.
En: Karla quickly reached for her phone.

Hr: Snimila je nekoliko fotografija, usprkos početnom oklevanju zbog kamere na telefonu.
En: She took several photographs, despite the initial hesitation about using her phone's camera.

Hr: Fotografija je bila zadivljujuća.
En: The photograph was stunning.

Hr: Karla je bila iscrpljena, ali sretna.
En: Karla was exhausted but happy.

Hr: Vratila se s prijateljima na vrijeme za Božić.
En: She returned with her friends in time for Christmas.

Hr: Obitelj je bila oduševljena njenom pričom i fotografijama.
En: Her family was delighted with her story and photographs.

Hr: Karla je sa sobom donijela savršen trenutak iz zimskog dana.
En: Karla had brought with her the perfect moment from the winter day.

Hr: Uz kamin i topli čaj, Karla je razmišljala.
En: By the fireplace and with warm tea, Karla pondered.

Hr: Naučila je važnu lekciju.
En: She learned an important lesson.

Hr: Spontanost i prilagodljivost su ključ.
En: Spontaneity and adaptability are key.

Hr: Savršenstvo se može naći na neočekivanim mjestima, kada najmanje očekujete.
En: Perfection can be found in unexpected places when you least expect it.

Hr: Nacionalni park Plitvička jezera ostao je zauvijek zabilježen na njenim fotografijama, ali i u njenom srcu.
En: Nacionalni park Plitvička jezera remained forever captured in her photographs, but also in her heart.

Hr: Božić je bio poseban, ispunjen ljubavlju i mirnim uspomenama.
En: Christmas was special, filled with love and peaceful memories.


Vocabulary Words:

• gently: nježno
• forests: šume
• footsteps: koraka
• interruption: prekid
• enthusiast: ljubiteljica
• paradise: raj
• hectic: užurbanog
• mission: misiju
• frozen: smrznute
• waterfalls: slapove
• exhibition: izložbu
• inspiration: inspiraciju
• accumulated: nakupio
• pressure: pritisak
• decision: odluku
• dangerous: opasnijim
• determined: odlučna
• hesitation: oklevanju
• stunning: zadivljujuća
• exhausted: iscrpljena
• story: priča
• delighted: oduševljena
• fireplace: kamin
• pondered: razmišljala
• lesson: lekciju
• spontaneity: spontanost
• adaptability: prilagodljivost
• captured: zabilježen
• memories: uspomenama
• unexpected: neočekivanim

Fluent Fiction - Croatian: How Teamwork Transformed a Wintery Zagreb Café Party
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-20-23-34-02-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: U Zagrebu, u srcu zime, kafić Urban Jungle bio je prava zelena oaza.
En: In Zagreb, in the heart of winter, the café Urban Jungle was a real green oasis.

Hr: Unutar toplog kafića, zelenilo je ispunjavalo prostor, a šareni murali krasili su zidove.
En: Inside the warm café, greenery filled the space, and colorful murals adorned the walls.

Hr: Miris svježe kave ispunjavao je zrak, dok su gosti tražili trenutak odmora od užurbanosti vanjskog svijeta.
En: The aroma of fresh coffee filled the air, as patrons sought a moment of respite from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

Hr: Miroslav, marljivi projektni menadžer, sjedio je za stolom, okružen bilježnicama i laptopom.
En: Miroslav, a diligent project manager, sat at a table surrounded by notebooks and a laptop.

Hr: Njegov um bio je podijeljen između završetka važnih rokova i planiranja savršene božićne zabave za svoj tim.
En: His mind was divided between meeting important deadlines and planning the perfect Christmas party for his team.

Hr: Miroslav je već dugo želio organizirati nešto posebno za kolege.
En: Miroslav had long wanted to organize something special for his colleagues.

Hr: Znao je da su svi umorni od posla i stresa.
En: He knew they were all tired from work and stress.

Hr: Ali, istovremeno, posao je postajao sve zahtjevniji.
En: But at the same time, work was becoming increasingly demanding.

Hr: Moralo se puno toga napraviti, a dani do Božića prolazili su brzo.
En: A lot had to be done, and the days until Christmas were passing quickly.

Hr: Dok je razmišljao o najboljem načinu da sve stigne, sjetio se Ane.
En: As he thought about the best way to make everything happen, he remembered Ana.

Hr: Ana je bila poznata po svojoj vještini organizacije i logistike.
En: Ana was known for her organizational and logistical skills.

Hr: Bila je savršena osoba za pomoć.
En: She was the perfect person to help.

Hr: Bez previše oklijevanja, Miroslav je prišao Ani.
En: Without much hesitation, Miroslav approached Ana.

Hr: "Ana, trebam tvoju pomoć," rekao je tiho, pazeći da ga nitko ne čuje.
En: "Ana, I need your help," he said quietly, making sure no one could hear him.

Hr: "Želim organizirati božićnu zabavu za tim, ali ne mogu sve sam.
En: "I want to organize a Christmas party for the team, but I can't do it all by myself."

Hr: "Ana se nasmiješila.
En: Ana smiled.

Hr: "Naravno, rado ću pomoći.
En: "Of course, I'd be happy to help.

Hr: Što ti treba?
En: What do you need?"

Hr: "Miroslav joj je brzo izložio plan.
En: Miroslav quickly laid out the plan for her.

Hr: Razmijenili su ideje i dogovorili se da će Ana diskretno preuzeti logistiku, dok će Miroslav delegirati dio svojih radnih zadataka kako bi imao više vremena za zabavu.
En: They exchanged ideas and agreed that Ana would discreetly take over the logistics, while Miroslav would delegate some of his work tasks to have more time for the party.

Hr: No, tog dana, iznenada se pojavio problem.
En: However, that day, a problem suddenly arose.

Hr: Davor, ključni član Miroslavove ekipe, mogao je propustiti zabavu zbog hitnog projekta.
En: Davor, a key member of Miroslav's team, might miss the party due to an urgent project.

Hr: To je bio udarac za Miroslava.
En: This was a blow for Miroslav.

Hr: Davor je bio važan dio tima, i njegova prisutnost bila je ključna.
En: Davor was an important part of the team, and his presence was crucial.

Hr: Kao prava timska igračica, Ana je smislila rješenje.
En: Being a true team player, Ana came up with a solution.

Hr: "Zašto ne pokušamo riješiti Davora od zadatka?
En: "Why don't we try to relieve Davor from the task?

Hr: Možda možemo naći zamjenu ili prebaciti rok.
En: Maybe we can find a replacement or shift the deadline."

Hr: "Zajedno s Anom i kolegama, uspjeli su organizirati posao na način da je Davor mogao prisustvovati.
En: Together with Ana and colleagues, they managed to organize the work so Davor could attend.

Hr: Miroslav je osjetio veliko olakšanje.
En: Miroslav felt a great relief.

Hr: Zabava se mogla nastaviti kako je planirao.
En: The party could proceed as planned.

Hr: Na kraju dana, svi kolege okupili su se kod Urban Jungle.
En: At the end of the day, all the colleagues gathered at Urban Jungle.

Hr: I iznenađenje je uspjelo!
En: And the surprise was a success!

Hr: Božićna zabava bila je pun pogodak.
En: The Christmas party was a hit.

Hr: Svi su uživali u opuštajućoj atmosferi uz glazbu i smijeh, zaboravljajući na poslovne brige.
En: Everyone enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere with music and laughter, forgetting about work worries.

Hr: Miroslav je znao da bez pomoći svog tima ne bi uspio.
En: Miroslav knew that without his team's help, he wouldn't have succeeded.

Hr: Shvatio je koliko je važno osloniti se na druge.
En: He realized how important it is to rely on others.

Hr: Zabava je, osim radosti i veselja, donijela novu povezanost među kolegama.
En: Besides joy and celebration, the party brought new connections among colleagues.

Hr: Dok je večer odmicala, Miroslav je pogledao oko sebe s osjećajem postignuća.
En: As the evening progressed, Miroslav looked around with a sense of accomplishment.

Hr: Naučio je vrijednu lekciju - ponekad je potrebno prepustiti dio odgovornosti i vjerovati onima oko sebe.
En: He learned a valuable lesson—sometimes it's necessary to delegate responsibility and trust those around you.

Hr: Kao i u svakom dobro organiziranom timu, svaki član bio je ključ uspjeha.
En: As in any well-organized team, every member was key to the success.


Vocabulary Words:

• oasis: oaza
• murals: murali
• adorned: krasili
• aroma: miris
• respite: trenutak odmora
• hustle: užurbanost
• diligent: marljivi
• divided: podijeljen
• deadlines: rokova
• logistical: logistike
• hesitation: oklijevanja
• discreetly: diskretno
• delegate: delegirati
• urgent: hitnog
• relief: olakšanje
• relieve: riješiti
• replacement: zamjenu
• attendance: prisustvo
• colleagues: kolegama
• atmosphere: atmosfera
• laughter: smijeh
• accomplishment: postignuća
• valuable: vrijednu
• delegate: prepustiti
• responsibility: odgovornosti
• connections: povezanost
• organization: organiziranje
• trust: vjerovati
• team player: timska igračica
• proceed: nastaviti

Fluent Fiction - Croatian: Winter Romance Brews at Urban Jungle Cafe
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-20-08-38-20-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: Zagrebačke ulice bile su prekrivene snježnim prekrivačem.
En: The Zagrebačke streets were covered with a snowy blanket.

Hr: Urban Jungle Cafe svijetlio je toplinom i mirisom božićnih kolačića.
En: Urban Jungle Cafe glowed with warmth and the scent of Christmas cookies.

Hr: Božić je bio pred vratima.
En: Christmas was at the doorstep.

Hr: Voćke kave, cimet, čokolada - sve je bilo spremno da omami svakog posjetitelja.
En: Coffee beans, cinnamon, chocolate - everything was ready to enchant any visitor.

Hr: Luka i Ivana, obučeni u crne pregače, kretali su se među stolovima i osmijehom posluživali goste.
En: Luka and Ivana, dressed in black aprons, moved among the tables, serving guests with smiles.

Hr: Luka je bio marljiv student.
En: Luka was a diligent student.

Hr: Radio je dan i noć da skupi novac za putovanje iz snova.
En: He worked day and night to save money for a dream trip.

Hr: Ipak, njegov pravi san stajao je pored njega.
En: Yet, his real dream stood right beside him.

Hr: Ivana.
En: Ivana.

Hr: Sjaj svojih smeđih očiju i zarazni osmijeh činili su svaki njegov dan boljim.
En: The shine of her brown eyes and infectious smile made every day better for him.

Hr: Luka se dugo borio s osjećajima prema Ivani.
En: Luka had long struggled with his feelings for Ivana.

Hr: Znao je da mora nešto učiniti.
En: He knew he had to do something.

Hr: Možda... napisati joj bilješku?
En: Maybe... write her a note?

Hr: Ivana je voljela raditi u kafiću.
En: Ivana loved working at the cafe.

Hr: Gosti su dolazili uživati u toplini kave i svjetla.
En: Guests would come to enjoy the warmth of coffee and light.

Hr: No, Ivana je tražila više.
En: But Ivana sought more.

Hr: Osjećala se zarobljeno iza šaltera.
En: She felt trapped behind the counter.

Hr: Željela je pronaći novu svrhu, nešto zbog čega će ustajati s osmijehom.
En: She wanted to find a new purpose, something worth waking up with a smile for.

Hr: Istovremeno, primijetila je Lukinu napetost.
En: At the same time, she noticed Luka's tension.

Hr: Htjela je razgovarati i pomoći mu, ali kako započeti?
En: She wanted to talk and help him, but how to begin?

Hr: U danima pred Božić, Urban Jungle Cafe bio je prepun.
En: In the days leading up to Christmas, Urban Jungle Cafe was bustling.

Hr: Gosti su naručivali tople napitke i slastice.
En: Guests ordered warm drinks and pastries.

Hr: Luka je bio pod stresom.
En: Luka was under stress.

Hr: Posla je bilo puno, a Ivana... Ivana mu je bila stalno na pameti.
En: There was a lot of work, and Ivana... Ivana was constantly on his mind.

Hr: Napokon, odlučio je napisati bilješku.
En: Finally, he decided to write a note.

Hr: Mala, jednostavna.
En: Small, simple.

Hr: "Ivana, volim te. Luka."
En: "Ivana, I love you. Luka."

Hr: Stavila ju je među središnje časopise u nadi da će je pronaći.
En: He placed it among the central magazines hoping she would find it.

Hr: Božićna večer došla je brzo.
En: Christmas Eve came quickly.

Hr: Kafić je bio ispunjen svečanim žamorom.
En: The cafe was filled with festive chatter.

Hr: Topla čokolada budila je sjećanja na djetinjstvo.
En: Hot chocolate evoked childhood memories.

Hr: Gosti su polako odlazili.
En: Guests slowly left.

Hr: Luka je osjetio paniku.
En: Luka felt a panic.

Hr: Bilješka je još uvijek bila tu, nepodignuta.
En: The note was still there, unpicked.

Hr: Morao je reći Ivani.
En: He had to tell Ivana.

Hr: Pravo u oči.
En: Right to her eyes.

Hr: Ivana, mijenjajući rubnjak stolnjaka, osjetila je kako joj se Luka približava.
En: Ivana, adjusting the tablecloth's edge, felt Luka approaching.

Hr: Pogledao ju je i tiho rekao: "Ivana, možemo li razgovarati?"
En: He looked at her and quietly said, "Ivana, can we talk?"

Hr: Oči su joj blistale radoznalošću.
En: Her eyes shone with curiosity.

Hr: "Što se događa, Luka?" upitala je nježno.
En: "What’s happening, Luka?" she asked gently.

Hr: "Ivana... mislim da mi se sviđaš. Zapravo, mislim da te volim."
En: "Ivana... I think I like you. Actually, I think I love you."

Hr: Ivana je zastala.
En: Ivana paused.

Hr: Bila je iznenađena, ali i sretna.
En: She was surprised but also happy.

Hr: "Luka, i ja sam osjećala isto.
En: "Luka, I've felt the same.

Hr: Samo nisam znala kako da ti kažem."
En: I just didn't know how to tell you."

Hr: Osmijeh oko Lukina lica bio je neprocjenjiv.
En: The smile around Luka's face was priceless.

Hr: Pronašli su zajedničku sreću među toplim čajem i kolačićima s cimetom.
En: They found mutual happiness among warm tea and cinnamon cookies.

Hr: Odlučili su da je važno ići polako, uživati u svakom trenutku.
En: They decided it's important to take it slow, to enjoy every moment.

Hr: Tako je Urban Jungle Cafe postao svjedok ne samo aromatične kave i kolačića, već i novog početka među Lukom i Ivanom.
En: Thus Urban Jungle Cafe became a witness not only to aromatic coffee and cookies but also to a new beginning between Luka and Ivana.

Hr: Uz toplo svjetlo lampiona i nježne melodije, Božić je donio novu nadu i ljubav.
En: With the warm light of lanterns and gentle melodies, Christmas brought new hope and love.

Hr: A snijeg koji je padao izvana, bio je samo šećer na kraju priče.
En: And the snow falling outside was just the icing on the end of the story.


Vocabulary Words:

• blanket: prekrivač
• warmth: toplina
• enchant: omamiti
• diligent: marljiv
• struggled: borio
• feelings: osjećaji
• note: bilješka
• purpose: svrha
• counter: šalter
• tension: napetost
• bustling: prepun
• stress: stres
• panic: panika
• adjusting: mijenjajući
• curiosity: radoznalost
• infectious: zarazni
• chatter: žamor
• evoked: budila
• priceless: neprocjenjiv
• mutual: zajedničku
• melodies: melodije
• memories: sjećanja
• enjoy: uživati
• visitor: posjetitelj
• approaching: približava
• surprised: iznenađena
• witness: svjedok
• gentle: nježno
• noticing: primijetila
• icing: šećer

Fluent Fiction - Croatian: Rekindling Old Friendships Amidst Dolac's Christmas Charm
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-19-23-34-02-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: Dolac Market blista u svjetlima božićnih lampica.
En: The Dolac Market glistens in the lights of Christmas decorations.

Hr: Zrak je hladan, ali pun sredozemnog mirisa začina i kuhanog vina.
En: The air is cold, but full of Mediterranean scents of spices and mulled wine.

Hr: Ivana korača kroz gomilu, čvrsto držajući popis koji je pažljivo pripremila za darove i sastojke za božićnu večeru.
En: Ivana strides through the crowd, tightly holding the list she carefully prepared for gifts and ingredients for Christmas dinner.

Hr: Njezine oči prelaze sa štanda na štand, tražeći savršene darove za svoje prijatelje.
En: Her eyes move from stall to stall, searching for the perfect gifts for her friends.

Hr: Katarina hoda pored nje, s fokusom na zadatak.
En: Katarina walks beside her, focused on the task.

Hr: "Ivana, trebamo požuriti.
En: "Ivana, we need to hurry.

Hr: Dolac nikad nije bio ovako pun," upozorava ona dok prolaze pokraj štanda s domaćim sirevima.
En: Dolac has never been this crowded," she warns as they pass by a stall with local cheeses.

Hr: Ivana klimne, ali njezine misli su negdje drugdje.
En: Ivana nods, but her thoughts are elsewhere.

Hr: Miroslav.
En: Miroslav.

Hr: Prisjetila se kako su se udaljili nakon beznačajne svađe.
En: She remembered how they drifted apart after a trivial argument.

Hr: Kako bi bilo lijepo ponovno se povezati tijekom praznika.
En: How nice it would be to reconnect during the holidays.

Hr: Ali što ako on ne želi isto?
En: But what if he doesn't want the same?

Hr: Dok hodaju dalje, Ivana vidi Miroslava kako stoji pored štanda s medenjacima.
En: As they walk further, Ivana sees Miroslav standing by the gingerbread stall.

Hr: Ne može vjerovati svojim očima.
En: She can't believe her eyes.

Hr: Njegovo opušteno držanje i vedar osmijeh odmah joj griju srce.
En: His relaxed posture and cheerful smile immediately warm her heart.

Hr: Instinktivno se usmjeri prema njemu, Katarina ostaje iza, nesvjesna što se događa.
En: Instinctively, she moves towards him, leaving Katarina behind, unaware of what's happening.

Hr: "Ivana!
En: "Ivana!"

Hr: " Miroslav je iznenađen, ali njegov osmijeh je širok.
En: Miroslav is surprised, but his smile is wide.

Hr: "Nisam mislio da ću te ovdje sresti.
En: "I didn't think I'd see you here."

Hr: ""Ni ja.
En: "Neither did I.

Hr: Hajde da nađemo neko mirnije mjesto," predloži Ivana, pokazavši na klupu na kraju tržnice.
En: Let's find a quieter place," suggests Ivana, pointing to a bench at the end of the market.

Hr: Srce joj ubrzava dok se sjeća njihove posljednje nesuglasice.
En: Her heart races as she recalls their last disagreement.

Hr: Sjeda s njim, razgovor počinje lagano.
En: She sits with him, the conversation starts lightly.

Hr: Obnavljaju stare uspomene, smiju se.
En: They reminisce about old memories, laugh.

Hr: Upitnog pogleda, Ivana skupi hrabrost i priča o prošlosti.
En: With a questioning look, Ivana gathers the courage to talk about the past.

Hr: "Žao mi je zbog onog što se dogodilo.
En: "I'm sorry about what happened."

Hr: "Miroslav klimne.
En: Miroslav nods.

Hr: "I meni.
En: "Me too.

Hr: Nedostajala su mi naša prijateljstva.
En: I missed our friendship."

Hr: "Osjećaj olakšanja preplavio Ivanu.
En: A feeling of relief swept over Ivana.

Hr: Ovo je bila prilika koju nije očekivala.
En: This was an opportunity she didn't expect.

Hr: Razgovor postaje lagan i srdačan.
En: The conversation becomes easy and heartfelt.

Hr: Konačno, kad krene povratak k Katarini, Ivana se okreće Miroslavu.
En: Finally, as she prepares to return to Katarina, Ivana turns to Miroslav.

Hr: "Htjela bih da dođeš na božićnu večeru.
En: "I would like you to come to Christmas dinner."

Hr: "On se nasmiješi.
En: He smiles.

Hr: "Rado bih.
En: "I’d love to."

Hr: "Nakon njihovog susreta, Ivana ponovo susreće Katarinu.
En: After their encounter, Ivana meets Katarina again.

Hr: "Jesam li nešto propustila?
En: "Did I miss something?"

Hr: " Katarina se šaljivo brine.
En: Katarina jokingly worries.

Hr: "Ne, sve je u redu.
En: "No, everything's fine.

Hr: Pronašla sam jedan poseban dar," nasmiješi se Ivana, stavljajući značenje u riječi koje Katarina uopće ne primjećuje.
En: I found a special gift," Ivana smiles, putting meaning into words that Katarina doesn't notice at all.

Hr: Dolac je i dalje bučan, s pjesmom veselih prodavača i kupaca.
En: Dolac is still bustling, with the song of cheerful sellers and buyers.

Hr: Ivana nastavlja s kupnjom.
En: Ivana continues shopping.

Hr: Sada bez popisa, sada s novom energijom.
En: Now without a list, now with new energy.

Hr: Ona shvaća važnost fleksibilnosti, otvaranja prema neočekivanom.
En: She realizes the importance of flexibility, of opening up to the unexpected.

Hr: Njezin Božić čeka, obogaćen darovima i obnovljenim prijateljstvom.
En: Her Christmas awaits, enriched with gifts and renewed friendship.


Vocabulary Words:

• glistens: blista
• scents: mirisa
• strides: korača
• ingredients: sastojke
• stall: štanda
• cheeses: sirevima
• trivial: beznačajne
• reconnect: povezati
• gingerbread: medenjacima
• posture: držanje
• instinctively: instinktivno
• questioning: upitnog
• reminisce: obnavljaju
• disagreement: nesuglasice
• heartfelt: srdačan
• encounter: susreta
• bustling: bučan
• cheerful: veselih
• flexibility: fleksibilnosti
• unexpected: neočekivanom
• renewed: obnovljenim
• decorations: lampica
• crowd: gomilu
• prepared: pripremila
• tasks: zadataka
• opportunity: prilika
• focus: fokusom
• warns: upozorava
• believe: vjerovati
• relief: olakšanja

Fluent Fiction - Croatian: A Heartfelt Holiday Hunt: Finding Meaning in Last-Minute Shopping
Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:
fluentfiction.com/hr/episode/2025-12-19-08-38-20-hr

Story Transcript:

Hr: Luka stajao ispred vrata Tajnog Bunkera, duboko udahnuo.
En: Luka stood in front of the door to the Tajni Bunker, took a deep breath.

Hr: Bilo je to posebna prodavnica, smještena ispod zemlje, poznata po rijetkim i neobičnim stvarima.
En: It was a special store, located underground, known for rare and unusual items.

Hr: Luka je volio takva mjesta, ali ovaj put ga je pritiskao rok.
En: Luka loved such places, but this time he was under a deadline.

Hr: Bio je Badnjak, a on još uvijek nije imao dar za svoju sestru Marinu.
En: It was Christmas Eve, and he still didn't have a gift for his sister, Marina.

Hr: Marina je bila organizirana.
En: Marina was organized.

Hr: Uvijek je imala popise i sve obavila tjednima unaprijed.
En: She always had lists and got everything done weeks in advance.

Hr: Luka, s druge strane, često je čekao posljednju minutu.
En: Luka, on the other hand, often waited until the last minute.

Hr: Ali ovaj put je htio nešto posebno.
En: But this time he wanted something special.

Hr: Nešto što će Marini pokazati koliko mu znači.
En: Something that would show Marina how much she meant to him.

Hr: Iznutra, Tajni Bunker je bio prepun ljudi.
En: Inside, the Tajni Bunker was packed with people.

Hr: Glazba za Božić tiho je svirala dok su kupci pretraživali police.
En: Christmas music played softly as shoppers scoured the shelves.

Hr: Luka je hodao kroz dimne, uske hodnike, osjeća pritisak vremena.
En: Luka walked through the smoky, narrow aisles, feeling the pressure of time.

Hr: Svaka polica gotovo prazna.
En: Every shelf was almost empty.

Hr: Ljudi su se otimali za sitnice, no Luka je tražio nešto značajnije.
En: People were scrambling for trinkets, but Luka was looking for something more meaningful.

Hr: Snažno je razmišljao: Moram pronaći nešto jedinstveno.
En: He was thinking hard: I must find something unique.

Hr: Nešto što će nas oboje podsjetiti na djetinjstvo.
En: Something that will remind both of us of our childhood.

Hr: Ali što?
En: But what?

Hr: Sat je otkucavao, i Luka je postajao sve zabrinutiji.
En: The clock was ticking, and Luka was growing more anxious.

Hr: Odjednom, u kutu trgovine, primijetio je malu kutiju.
En: Suddenly, in the corner of the store, he noticed a small box.

Hr: Unutra je bio ručno izrađen ukras, nježno, s ljubavlju izrađen.
En: Inside was a handmade ornament, gently crafted with love.

Hr: Bio je to zvončić s motivom koji ga je odmah vratio u prošlost.
En: It was a little bell with a motif that immediately took him back to the past.

Hr: Sjetio se dana kada su on i Marina gradili snjegoviće i ukrašavali ih sličnim zvončićima.
En: He remembered the days when he and Marina built snowmen and decorated them with similar bells.

Hr: Luka ga je pažljivo uzeo.
En: Luka carefully picked it up.

Hr: Znajući da je ovo ono što je tražio, otišao je do blagajne.
En: Knowing this was what he was looking for, he went to the checkout.

Hr: Prodavačica mu se nasmiješila i čestitala na izboru.
En: The saleswoman smiled at him and congratulated him on his choice.

Hr: Kasnije te večeri, Luka je predao dar Marini.
En: Later that evening, Luka gave the gift to Marina.

Hr: "Sjetiš li se?
En: "Do you remember?"

Hr: " pitao ju je s osmijehom, pokazujući ukras.
En: he asked her with a smile, showing her the ornament.

Hr: Marina je pažljivo promatrala, a zatim se nasmiješila.
En: Marina looked at it carefully, then smiled.

Hr: "Naravno da se sjećam," rekla je, zagrlivši ga.
En: "Of course, I remember," she said, hugging him.

Hr: "Hvala ti, Luka.
En: "Thank you, Luka.

Hr: Ovo je najljepši poklon koji sam mogla poželjeti.
En: This is the most beautiful gift I could have wished for."

Hr: "Luka je tada shvatio da vrijednost poklona nije u njegovoj cijeni, već u mislima i sjećanjima koje nosi.
En: Luka then realized that the value of a gift isn't in its price, but in the thoughts and memories it carries.

Hr: Planiranje je važno, ali ponekad je prava čar u jednostavnosti i iskrenosti.
En: Planning is important, but sometimes the true magic is in simplicity and sincerity.

Hr: Ove blagdane, Marina i Luka osjećali su se bliže nego ikad.
En: This holiday season, Marina and Luka felt closer than ever.

Hr: I dok su zajedno slagali ukrase na božićno drvce, Luka je znao da je naučio važnu lekciju.
En: And as they decorated the Christmas tree together, Luka knew he had learned an important lesson.

Hr: Ukras na drvcu nije bio samo simbol prošlih dana, već i dokaz ljubavi i zahvalnosti koja ih okružuje.
En: The ornament on the tree was not just a symbol of past days, but also proof of the love and gratitude that surrounded them.


Vocabulary Words:

• bunker: bunker
• rare: rijetko
• unusual: neobično
• deadline: rok
• organized: organizirana
• advance: unaprijed
• scrambling: otimali
• trinkets: sitnice
• meaningful: značajnije
• unique: jedinstveno
• childhood: djetinjstvo
• anxious: zabrinutiji
• handmade: ručno izrađen
• ornament: ukras
• crafted: izrađen
• motif: motiv
• checkout: blagajna
• congratulated: čestitala
• sincerity: iskrenost
• symbol: simbol
• gratitude: zahvalnost
• surrounded: okružuje
• pressure: pritisak
• smoky: dimne
• narrow: uske
• scoured: pretraživali
• ticking: otkucavao
• carefully: pažljivo
• hugging: zagrlivši
• wished: poželjeti