import random


def _process_word(word: str) -> str:
    """Randomize letter order in word leaving first and last letters in place.

    Parameters
    ----------
    word : str
        Normal word

    Returns
    -------
    str
        "Stirred" word

    """
    if len(word) <= 3:
        return word

    first_letter, *innards, last_letter = word
    random.shuffle(innards)
    return "".join([first_letter] + innards + [last_letter])