Are they couples?

Jack stirred awake, his phone's ringing tone blaring in the quiet of the early morning. Groaning, he fumbled for the device on his bedside table, pressing it to his ear.

"Hello," he murmured groggily, barely able to keep his eyes open.

"Jack! Where did you run off to yesterday? I told you to wait for me, and you just left!" The voice on the other end was unmistakably Elisa, her tone sharp and demanding.

Jack winced, fully awake now. Elisa was always bossy, but this morning, her irritation was palpable. "I had an urgent task assigned by the system," he explained, trying to keep his voice calm.

"What task was so important that you couldn't wait for me?" Elisa's curiosity was laced with annoyance.

"I'll explain everything when you come over," Jack promised.

Elisa sighed. "I'm not coming back home. I'm already at the Red Faction. My parents agreed for me to join."

Jack felt a pang of surprise. He sighed, realizing this conversation wasn't going the way he had hoped. "Alright, I'll come to the Red Faction and explain everything in person. It's important, and I think they'll find the information valuable."

After ending the call, Jack got out of bed and headed to the kitchen. His mother was there, making coffee. The aroma filled the room, comforting in its familiarity.

"Good morning, Mom," Jack greeted, leaning in to give her a peck on the cheek.

"Good morning, Jack. Elisa called earlier and mentioned she joined the Red Faction," his mother said, her voice neutral but her eyes curious.

Jack frowned, surprised. Elisa usually didn't share things with his mother before telling him. "Yeah, she told me too. I was there when they offered her admission."

He grabbed a plate with a burger next to the microwave, assuming it was for him. After eating, he took a quick shower and decided against wearing his school uniform. Today wasn't a school day for him.

"Mom, I'm heading out to school," he called out as he reached the front door, hoping she wouldn't notice his lie.

Outside, he flagged down a taxi. As the vehicle moved through the streets, Jack's thoughts drifted to his sister's illness. The medical bills were piling up, and he was running out of options. An idea flickered in his mind, but he wasn't sure if his mother would agree.

The driver's voice broke through his thoughts, announcing their arrival. Jack paid the fare and stepped out, standing before the imposing Red Faction building. Taking a deep breath, he walked in.

"I'm here to see Miss Elisa," he told the receptionist, who nodded and picked up the phone. After a brief conversation, she gestured for him to follow her.

She led him to a large room filled with tables and benches. It was quiet, almost deserted, with only a few early risers scattered about. Jack chose a seat by the window, curious about life inside the faction.

Outside, members were engaged in rigorous training. Some were doing push-ups, while others, mostly women, practiced swordsmanship with impressive precision.

"Hey, brother!" Elisa's voice pulled him from his thoughts. She approached the table, a smile on her face.

"Hi. You guys have some intense training going on," Jack remarked, glancing out the window again.

"That's why I chose to be here," Elisa replied, taking a seat across from him. "So, what's this important information you wanted to share?"

Jack deflected her question. "How's the campus treating you?"

Elisa sighed, recognizing his tactic. "It's been fine so far. It's only been one night, after all."

"I found something during my task yesterday," Jack began, his tone serious. "The Saltins' ships are set to land just a few meters from here, behind the warehouse down the street."

Elisa's eyes widened, her curiosity piqued. "That's major. Anything else?"

"The ships will be here in less than three months. Their fleets are already advancing toward Earth, and they'll be deploying their lowest-ranked armies first."

Elisa sat back, processing the information. "This is huge. I need to inform the president immediately."

Jack nodded, still gazing out the window. "If you want to join me, feel free," Elisa offered, noticing his distraction.

"I can't," Jack replied with a sigh. "I'm planning to start my own faction."

Elisa looked at him, surprised. "Why didn't you tell me? I could've been your first member."

Jack shook his head. "I didn't want to hold you back. You've always wanted to spread your wings and make new friends. This place is perfect for you."

Elisa smiled, touched by his words. She leaned in and hugged him. "Would you like to come with me to inform the leader? You deserve recognition for your findings."

Jack stood up, shaking his head. "It's not necessary. You go ahead."

As he turned to leave, Elisa planted a quick kiss on his cheek. Jack felt a warm glow inside. He had always hoped for something more, but this gesture was enough for now. With a small smile, he left the room, his thoughts already on the next steps for his journey.