Recently, a short video went viral online, receiving millions of likes with just a simple photo. What moved people online deeply was a mysterious refund and a warm message behind it, making many exclaim, “This is truly heartwarming!”

On August 16th, two college graduates, Liu and Song, who came to Shenzhen to look for jobs, ate at a Shaxian Snack shop in Longgang District. While eating, they discussed their job-hunting plans. After leaving, around 6 pm, they suddenly received a 13-yuan refund on their phones.

At first, they thought it was a system error. But after checking, they found it was voluntarily returned by the snack shop, along with a note that read, “Keep going, free meal!” Later, the two graduates shared the story on a video platform, and it became an overnight hit.

When asked about it, the shop owner Mr. Pan explained, “It was my partner Mr. Huang who refunded the money. He told me the two girls were having a hard time. My mom also said we should help if we can.” Having experienced several startups and being a father of two, Mr. Pan deeply understood their situation. “The amount is small, but a little warmth goes a long way. As a food vendor, I can’t help much else, but treating them to a meal is something I can do,” he said.

The graduates recalled, “We were moved to tears. It was the first time we felt such warmth away from home. We hope his business does well, and we all get better.” In response, Mr. Pan and his partner said, “Everyone goes through hard times. Helping others within our ability, making life a bit better for them — that’s what we hope for. We wish they find jobs in Shenzhen smoothly.”

Mr. Pan added, “These are small things. I just hope they’ll pass on such kindness when they can.” People online commented, “We’re always touched by such simple human warmth.” This 13-yuan free meal, without any grand gesture, became a simple act of kindness, allowing goodness to form a chain and spread warmth.