Problem: Continue the following story.

They wanted to purchase a new home instead of renting an apartment, but the 
Here's how I want to continue it: home is expensive.

Problem: Continue the following story.

After looking through the attic for a project, Mary threw away the chair but saved the desk to be painted, because the 
Here's how I want to continue it: chair was damaged beyond repair.

Problem: Continue the following story.

The products that Steven bought were more expensive than those of Leslie, since 
Here's how I want to continue it:
Leslie was a poor person.