A/N: ~sigh~ The final chapter. I hope you enjoy it.

Chapter 12

The whole crew helped take the plunder that Captain Nathaniel's crew had taken from Isla de Muerta and transfer it to The Black Pearl. I joined Jack at the wheel as we sailed back to Isla de Muerta. At this point, words were completely unnecessary. He wrapped his arm around my waist, and I placed my head on his shoulder. Nothing had ever felt so right.

We reached Isla de Muerta and unloaded the plunder back into the cave. On our way out, Jack stopped. "Wha's this?" he was looking at the message I had carved into the side of the cave.

Captain Jack Sparrow, my love,

Though at this point my life may be lost, rest assured that you saved it. You took me in and taught me what it was to live, and to love. And I truly do, Jack. I love you with every fiber of my being. We will find our way back to each other someday, this is one promise I intend to keep. I'm not afraid anymore, Jack. I'm not afraid to feel. Always feel my love, Jack. Never be afraid.

Hallie

Jack read my message, then looked at me, and his mesmerizing eyes held the most indescribable expression I had ever seen.

"That was right before I left the island. I couldn't imagine life without you, Jack Sparrow. You once said you live on that feeling of being at the wheel of the Pearl. Well I live on this feeling, this never-ending love I have for you. Always feel it, never fear it," I whispered to him, tears streaming down my cheeks.

"I don't think I ever properly thanked you for saving my life, love," he whispered. I joined my hands around his neck, and he pressed his warm lips against mine. I felt so alive at that moment, so aware of every detail. The feel of his hands around my waist, his lips against mine, the feel of the warm Caribbean sun beating down upon us. He pulled away gently. Turning around to head to the boats, there was Ana Maria. The three of us froze for a moment. Then I took out the now empty pistol, and handed it to Ana Maria.

"You saved his life as much as I did," I told her. Tears came to her eyes, and she embraced me.

"Any number of apologies will not right the wrong I committed against you," she cried. I looked her right in the eyes.

"You feared your feelings just as I feared mine. No apology is necessary." Jack then stepped forward, eyes locked on Ana Maria's. She looked terrified, overcome with guilt. He paused, then embraced Ana Maria. Crying tears of happiness, she then returned to the ship.

"You are an amazing man, Jack Sparrow," I told Jack lovingly. Then, taking my hand, we headed back to the Pearl.

"I never want to lose you again," he told me.

"You never did, my love." I told him. With that, our lips met in the perfect kiss, as time seemed to stop. Everything was perfect in the world. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect conclusion to the adventure of a lifetime. And somehow I had a feeling that being in love with Captain Jack Sparrow would be the beginning of a whole new adventure. How very right I was.

A/N: The end! Obviously I've left room for a sequel, but I don't have everything worked out, so it'll be a while, most likely. I want to thank everyone who took the time to read this, especially those who took the time to review and offer me encouragement and advice for this fic. You all are the greatest! Thanks so much, I'll miss you all!!