Following link sets variable

I'm sure there's an easy way to do this but I just can't find it. I'm in Twine 2, so using Harlowe by default but willing to switch.

I want the player to be taken to the same passage next, but depending on which option to proceed they chose, a variable is set to different things. Say, picking an object to bring before they head down a path. They'll be going down the same path no matter what, but later it will matter which object they brought with them.

Sorry if this is a stupid question...