Although Hinata has always secretly been interested in Naruto, Naruto first took interest in her during her match again Neji in the Chunin Exams. After Hinata expressed how she wished to change and become stronger as a person, Naruto was the one who encouraged her to stand up and fight for what she believed in.

Does Naruto really like Hinata?

In The Last: Naruto the Movie, Naruto told Hinata he loved her, but truly he had feelings for her. Then he kissed her, he did fall in love together forever and lived happily ever after.

Does Naruto ever fall in love with Hinata?

Naruto pleads with Hinata, telling her to flee for the sake of her own life, but Hinata refuses. She tells him that she is unafraid of death; If it is to protect him, she has no worry. She then finally confesses her love to him, which shocks Naruto.