- Lois: [tensions have been mounting as Hal learns of a possible health problem, and the boys misbehave rather spectacularly] How dare you defy us like that?
- Malcolm: Well we wouldn't have had to if you hadn't been ridiculously hard over a little mud on the floor.
- Lois: You two are the most ungrateful, badly behaved, inconsiderate boys ever born. How could you be so heartless?
- Reese: What is heartless about going to a party with a bunch of slutty girls?
- Malcolm: [whispering] Be cool.
- Hal: [almost out of control] You were at a party? While we were here worrying?
- Dewey: [oblivious] Can I have a napkin?
- Hal: [he throws the napkin toward Dewey, still focusing on Malcolm and Reese] I cannot believe you two.
- Lois: [losing it completely] All right, that's *it*! You're grounded for the rest of the school year.
- Reese: You can't do that.
- Malcolm: You're crazy!
- Hal: [enraged] You do *not* talk to your mother that way, **ever**! You will show her nothing but the love and respect she deserves, whether I am here or not.
- Reese: This family sucks. You are ruining our lives. I wish you were dead.
- [Lois is stunned, speechless, and she and Hal leave the kitchen]
- Malcolm: What was that all about?
- Reese: I don't know. She usually just says, 'I'm taking you with me.'