My Christmas Eve Surprise

クリスマスイブのサプライズ

英語ストーリー

Christmas Eve was always a special time for me. My family would gather around the fireplace, sharing stories and laughter. This particular year, however, was different. My older sister, Sarah, had been unusually quiet and secretive all day. She kept disappearing into her room, whispering on the phone, and acting strangely mysterious. My curiosity was piqued, and I couldn't help but wonder what she was up to. We opened our presents, and I received a cozy sweater and a new book, which I appreciated greatly. Then, after dinner, Sarah announced she had a surprise for everyone. She led us outside, where we found a beautiful, decorated Christmas tree. But that wasn't the real surprise. Under the tree, nestled among the presents, was a small, fluffy puppy! It was a golden retriever, and it was absolutely adorable. The look of joy on everyone's faces was priceless. That Christmas Eve surprise is a memory I will cherish forever. It was a perfect ending to a wonderful day.

日本語訳

重要単語・熟語

secretive

秘密主義の

"She was very secretive about her plans for the weekend."

cherish

大切にする、宝物にする

"I will always cherish the memories we made together."

piqued

刺激された、そそられた

"My curiosity was piqued by her mysterious behavior."

文法・構文解説

過去完了形 (had + past participle)

過去の特定の時点より前に完了した動作を表す。例:「My older sister, Sarah, had been unusually quiet...」は、クリスマスイブ当日より前の時点からサラが静かだったことを示す。

"I had already eaten dinner before they arrived."

現在完了形 (have/has + past participle)

過去の出来事が現在に影響を与えている場合や、経験を表す。例:「It was a perfect ending to a wonderful day.」は、過去の出来事(サプライズ)が現在も記憶に残っていることを示す。

"I have lived in this city for five years."