A Silver Lever

Nnngh... I shuffled across the cool granite counter toward a broad, boxy silver toaster. Down its side ran a black plastic lever sticking straight out. Mmh! I reached up with both hands, hooking my fingers over the edge, and pulled down with all my weight. *Clack!* The lever caught at the bottom with a stiff, heavy crunch. Inside the narrow metal slots, dark wire cages snapped tight, and faint warmth immediately radiated against my knuckles. I let out a sharp, startled squeal and hopped backward, flapping both hands wildly! But the shiny machine remained firm and quiet, radiating steady heat. I crept close again, patting the cool chrome casing with a pleased rumble.