Problem: Continue the following story.

He threw the stones at the intruder to deter him from advancing past the gates. The 
Here's how I want to continue it: stones were effective deterrents.

Problem: Continue the following story.

In order for his love to be happy, he bought flowers and bags. She liked the 
Here's how I want to continue it: flowers better because they were short-lasting.

Problem: Continue the following story.

Rebecca wiped her glasses with a rag and then switched to a tissue, because the 
Here's how I want to continue it:
tissue would get the job done.