Stephen had expected the first part of what Matthew had said, but the second part really threw him for a loop. Matthew had said in his journal that his father was dying, so it wasn't really news that he was going to die. But the real surprise was hearing Matthew say he didn't really care. It didn't make much sense considering that his friend seemed to be perfectly miserable.
"Really?" He practically ended up stuttering, and the shock must have been plain on his face. "What the hell happened - if you don't mind my asking?" As they started to head further into the house, he added, "If it's too personal, you don't have to tell me. Family business is family business. But still, that's rather mental - sorry."
Regarding the wine, he said, "Well...I did bring it cos' your old man's dying, but if you're totally apathetic about it...I dunno. But you did invite me, sort of. Figured it was just polite."