"If you don't like reading, then I suppose you don't have to read," she shrugged, "I just thought I'd try and be helpful. And I promise no Shakespeare." Barbara held a hand up while her other pressed against her heart, as though she were taking an oath.

She could have argued that Shakespeare is English, and prattled on about how he'd driven some of the great developments in their language but decided against it. There were other authors she could try.

After hopping down from her perch, Barbara Wright smiled warmly. "So, am I fit to be on board Stacey or do I need to be quarantined until further notice?"