Problem: Continue the following story.

The barber used the strap to sharpen the razors but not the scissors, since the 
Here's how I want to continue it: razors worked better after sharpening.

Problem: Continue the following story.

Randy would have flunked out of school if not for Brett 's tutoring since 
Here's how I want to continue it: Brett was a superior student.

Problem: Continue the following story.

The could not amend the department without permission from the office, as the 
Here's how I want to continue it:
department was subservient to it.