Problem: Continue the following story.

The mayor replaced the stained carpet in the court lobby with new hardwood, the 
Here's how I want to continue it: hardwood was trendy.

Problem: Continue the following story.

The man wanted to run the business out of his home office but the 
Here's how I want to continue it: business was too large.

Problem: Continue the following story.

Kenneth was worried about his relationship with Jeffrey, so 
Here's how I want to continue it:
Kenneth asked if they could talk.