Well, in many fanfictions, it might start with Gaara noticing Naruto's unique strength and unwavering spirit. Naruto's ability to reach out to others, even his enemies, could be very appealing to Gaara. Maybe during a joint mission, they have to rely on each other, and Gaara starts to see Naruto in a different light, gradually developing deeper feelings as they spend more time together.
Often, Gaara's crush could develop from Naruto's positive influence on him. Naruto has always been about friendship and breaking down barriers. Gaara, who has had a rather lonely and troubled past, might be drawn to Naruto's warmth. As Naruto befriends Gaara and shows him that there is more to life than just power and solitude, Gaara's feelings could start to shift towards a crush. He may begin to long for Naruto's company more and more.
In some fanfictions, Gaara's crush on Naruto can be a slow - burn process. At first, Gaara might be intrigued by Naruto's determination to become Hokage. As he observes Naruto's journey, he realizes how much he admires Naruto's growth. Naruto's forgiving nature towards Gaara's past actions also plays a role. Gaara may find himself thinking about Naruto more often, getting flustered when Naruto is around, which are all signs of his developing crush.
In such a fanfiction, their relationship could develop gradually. At first, female Naruto might be too shy to show her feelings. But then, through shared experiences, like fighting together against a common enemy. Gaara might start to notice her in a different way, and their relationship could start to grow deeper.
Naruto, being the friendly and optimistic one, would likely be excited for Gaara. He might encourage Gaara to be more open about his feelings towards Sakura. He could offer advice based on his own experiences with Hinata. Sasuke, though, would probably be aloof. He has always been more focused on his own goals and revenge. He might view Gaara's crush as a distraction for Gaara and tell him to focus on more important things, like protecting his village. However, deep down, he might also hope that Gaara can find some happiness.
One common scenario is when they are training together. Gaara, while watching Naruto train, can't help but be in awe of Naruto's energy and focus, which deepens his crush. Another scenario could be during village meetings, where Gaara steals glances at Naruto and has internal monologues about his feelings. Also, when they are on diplomatic visits to each other's villages, Gaara might go out of his way to be near Naruto and do small things for him, like getting him a special treat from his village.
At first, their relationship might be a bit guarded. Gaara, being used to isolation, might be hesitant to open up to Naruto. But as they face challenges together, like fighting a common enemy, they would start to respect each other's strength. Naruto's positive attitude would gradually break down Gaara's walls, and they would become friends.
In some fanfiction, their relationship develops through mutual understanding of their past traumas. Naruto, who was an outcast in the village at first, and Gaara, who was feared and alone, can relate to each other's feelings. They start to communicate more and become friends who support each other in battles and in personal growth.
One reason could be his mystery. Gaara has this air of mystery around him, which can be really attractive. Also, his power as a ninja might be appealing to her.
It could start with a simple act of kindness. For example, Naruto might share his food with Gaara during a ninja gathering. This small gesture makes Gaara see Naruto in a new light.
It might develop as they learn from each other. Naruto can teach Gaara about the value of having a large network of friends, while Gaara can show Naruto the importance of solitude in self - reflection. This exchange of ideas and values would bring them closer.
Well, usually in such fanfictions, Hinata's crush might develop through small, everyday interactions at the academy. For example, Naruto might unknowingly do something heroic or kind, and Hinata, being the shy and observant girl she is, would notice and her feelings would grow deeper each time. Maybe Naruto stands up to a bully for a younger student, and Hinata sees his selfless side, making her admire him even more.
It might start from their first encounter. Naruto's unique ability to see the good in Gaara despite his past as a loner and a feared ninja could be the initial spark. Gaara, not used to such kindness, begins to value Naruto. As they interact more, Gaara realizes Naruto's importance to the ninja world and his own life, so his protectiveness grows.