The expirament that went wrong

Previously

…Brenda, for the first time that day, let out a genuine laugh. The sound, though weary, was filled with relief. “Dr. Piffle,” she said, shaking her head, “that sounds like the most sensible invention you’ve had in years.” As Phineas began to formulate plans for the self-stirring teacup, a faint, almost inaudible whisper seemed to emanate from Toastie’s inert form. It was the faintest hint of a sigh, a sound of profound, if temporary, regret, followed by a single, almost wistful thought: If only it had been perfectly golden.