Problem: Continue the following story.

John still find the sound of the radio annoying after putting a headphone on his head. The 
Here's how I want to continue it: headphone is just too quiet.

Problem: Continue the following story.

Justin was a natural optimist but not Neil. 
Here's how I want to continue it: Neil found expressing gratitude did not come easily.

Problem: Continue the following story.

The backpack Benjamin had bought for Dennis was the present 
Here's how I want to continue it:
Benjamin had picked out for him.