Problem: Continue the following story.

Michael put the contaminants in Ian's food, so
Here's how I want to continue it: Michael was the cause of much pain.

Problem: Continue the following story.

The muffins in Michaels oven were almost ready when Ian showed up, so
Here's how I want to continue it: Ian asked for one.

Problem: Continue the following story.

Brian knocked on the door of the horse barn but Joel was no in there.
Here's how I want to continue it:
Joel was someone else.