Another option is that he's hiding from his own friends. Maybe there's something he's ashamed of or a secret he's keeping that he doesn't want his friends to discover. So, he uses the mask to create a barrier between his true self and them while he tries to figure things out on his own.
He could be hiding from Orochimaru. Orochimaru has always been interested in Naruto's power. Maybe Naruto has discovered a new power that Orochimaru wants even more desperately, so he hides behind a mask to avoid Orochimaru's detection.
One possible reason could be for protection. Maybe Naruto is hiding his true identity from an enemy who is specifically targeting him. He might be using the mask as a disguise to blend in and gather information without being recognized.
It could be Voldemort. Even if he was defeated in the original story, in this fanfiction he might have some sort of lingering influence or perhaps a follower who is continuing his dark work. Harry hides behind the mask to avoid being detected by this new threat related to Voldemort.
Well, one possibility could be that Naruto is hiding his true identity or emotions. Maybe he's on a secret mission and the mask helps him blend in or deceive the enemy. He could be using it as a form of protection, not just physically but also emotionally.
Sasuke could discover Naruto's true identity. They have a deep connection and Sasuke is very perceptive. He might notice small details like Naruto's mannerisms or the way he talks, even when Naruto is behind the mask.
Sasuke could be one of the people who help him. Despite their past differences, they have a deep bond. Sasuke has his own skills and knowledge that could be useful in Naruto's situation, like his Sharingan abilities which could help in detecting enemies while Naruto is hiding his face.
It could be Sasuke. He might be wearing a mask for some mysterious reason, like hiding his new powers or a new allegiance. Maybe he's on a secret mission that even Naruto doesn't know about at first.
His friends would be affected. For example, Sasuke might see Naruto in a new light and realize that they are more similar than he thought, both having their own inner struggles. Sakura would also be more empathetic towards Naruto and might try to be a better friend, offering more emotional support.
It could be a unique take where the female Naruto has a secret identity or a hidden power that's revealed when the mask comes off.
Another possibility is that it could be a new character created specifically for the fanfiction. A character who wears a mask for some secretive purpose, and when the mask breaks, it sets off a chain of events that are unique to the fan - created storyline.
It could be someone who is jealous of Naruto's hidden genius. Maybe a fellow ninja who senses that Naruto is hiding something and wants to expose him out of envy. This person might try to undermine Naruto at every turn.