Perhaps in the fanfiction, Kushina lied about Naruto's potential. She could have downplayed his abilities to keep him from being targeted too early. Like, if Naruto showed signs of having a powerful chakra reserve or a unique kekkei genkai, she might have lied to the village elders or other shinobi about it so that Naruto could grow up without too much interference or jealousy from others.
One possible scenario could be that Kushina's spirit somehow manifests and guides Naruto in a difficult battle. She might use her chakra to give him an extra boost or share some long - forgotten family jutsu with him. Another scenario could be that in a time - travel fanfic, Kushina actually gets to be there in person to save Naruto from a dangerous situation in his childhood that he originally faced alone, like the time he was ostracized in the village as a child.
Well, one scenario could be that Kushina finds a fanfiction where Naruto has turned evil due to some dark force. Another might be that she discovers a story where Naruto is in a relationship that is completely out of character for him. Maybe she stumbles upon a fanfiction where Naruto has some really strange and overpowered abilities that don't fit the original Naruto universe.
Perhaps Naruto lies to Kushina about something major. Let's say he gets into trouble at school and instead of being honest, he tries to cover it up. When the truth comes out, Kushina could be so disappointed that she cries. Or if Naruto decides to leave the village without telling her first, knowing how much Kushina loves him and wants him to be safe at home. This sudden departure could break her heart and make her cry.
One scenario could be that Naruto discovers some hidden secrets about Minato and Kushina that he interprets as them being selfish. For instance, he might find out that they had a choice to be with him but chose something else instead, which makes him angry and full of hatred towards them.
One interesting scenario could be Kushina protecting baby Naruto from some hidden threats in the village. She might use her unique Uzumaki abilities to keep him safe.
One possible plotline could be that Naruto is an orphan found by a different ninja clan. He grows up with different values and skills, and his path crosses with Kushina in a completely non - family - related way. For example, they could meet as rivals in a ninja tournament. Another plotline might involve Naruto being from another village entirely and coming to Konoha on a mission where he teams up with Kushina to fight a common enemy. They then form a bond based on mutual respect and shared experiences rather than a family connection.
Maybe Naruto's illness is a result of some dark jutsu used against him. His illness could lead to him being unable to perform his ninja duties, and so his friends, like Sasuke and Sakura, have to take on extra missions to protect the village while also trying to find a way to heal him. They could search through ancient ninja scrolls for a remedy.
One possible scenario is that Naruto accidentally bumps into Yugao during a festival in the village. He's immediately smitten and starts following her around, trying to find excuses to talk to her. Another could be that Yugao is assigned to train Naruto for a special mission. Naruto, during the training, develops a crush on her because of her cool and skilled fighting style.
One possible scenario is that Naruto travels to a hidden village that specializes in sword - based ninjutsu. There, he learns their techniques and gains the ability to conjure swords. Another could be that he is cursed by an evil ninja, but as a side - effect of the curse, he can now conjure swords. He then has to learn to control this new power.
One heartwarming scenario could be Minato teaching Naruto how to use the Rasengan. He patiently guides Naruto's hands, just as his father did for him. Kushina might be in the background, cheering them on with a big smile, and preparing Naruto's favorite food for when he finally masters it.