It could also be due to a misunderstanding. Perhaps there is some misinformation spread about Sasuke in the fanfiction, like false rumors that he has a hidden and malevolent plan. Naruto, being someone who values their friendship deeply, would be scared at the thought of Sasuke turning into an enemy because of these untrue stories.
One possible reason could be Kakashi's reputation as a strict and powerful teacher. Naruto might be in awe of his skills and fear making mistakes in front of him.
It makes their relationship more tense. Normally, they have a complex but strong bond. But with Naruto being scared, there is an added layer of unease. Naruto might avoid Sasuke, which is a big change from their usual interactions where they would confront each other directly.
In a fanfic, Sasuke's association with dangerous elements might make Sakura scared. For instance, if he teams up with a group of rogue ninjas. Also, his emotional state could play a role. If he is consumed by revenge and his anger is constantly boiling over, Sakura, who cares about him, might be scared of his self - destructive tendencies. Additionally, if Sasuke were to develop some sort of mind - control ability that he struggles to control, Sakura would surely be frightened.
One reason could be Kakashi's Sharingan. It's a very powerful and somewhat spooky ability. Naruto might see it in action in a way that scares him. Maybe Kakashi uses it to subdue an enemy in a really intense way that makes Naruto realize how dangerous Kakashi can be.
In some fanfictions, Naruto might reject Sasuke because of Sasuke's continuous pursuit of power in a way that endangers others. Naruto, who values friendship and the safety of the village, could see this as a betrayal of their shared values.
One reason could be Sasuke's thirst for power. If he believes Naruto is the only obstacle in his path to ultimate power, he might be driven to kill him. In some fanfictions, Sasuke may be influenced by a dark entity that twists his mind into thinking Naruto is a threat that needs to be eliminated.
Another reason might be related to their different ideologies within the ANBU. Naruto may have believed in a more collaborative and friendly approach within the organization, while Sasuke might have been more focused on individual achievement and power. This fundamental difference could lead to Naruto hating Sasuke in the fanfiction.
One possible reason could be to protect Hinata. Maybe Sasuke has unknowingly made a move or decision that Naruto perceives as a threat to Hinata, so he scares Sasuke to make him back off.
One possible reason could be that Kushina has a very strong and intimidating personality. In the Naruto universe, she was known to be a tough kunoichi. Naruto, who might be used to more gentle or reserved people around him, could be scared of her boldness.
Perhaps Naruto realizes that forcing Sasuke to stay would only create more resentment. By letting him escape, he hopes that Sasuke will have time to think and eventually return willingly. In the fanfiction, it could also be that Naruto has some sort of premonition that Sasuke's escape is necessary for a greater good in the future, like saving the village or the ninja world in a different way than if he were held back.