FIRST LOOK: Britney Returns to How I Met Your Mother

Despite the fact that How I Met Your Mother star Neil Patrick Harris has been somewhat outspoken on the subject of guest star Britney Spears — first saying that her mere being on the set wreaked havoc with the production, and then later telling reporters that he didn't think the show needed to resort to "stunt casting" to get ratings — the pair appear to be working in perfect harmony in this first shot from Britney's upcoming second appearance on the CBS hit.

SPOILER ALERT: For fans of How I Met Your Mother who don't want to know what happens when Brit-Brit makes her return appearance on May 12, stop reading now.

The rest of you can scroll down past the larger version of the picture.

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(Photo: Cliff Lipson/CBS)

Last time Britney appeared on HIMYM, her character Abby the receptionist was more than a little smitten with Barney (played by Harris), who didn't exactly return the sentiment.

But this time, Abby and Barney unite when they realize they have one thing in common — their mutual hatred of Ted. So to make him miserable, the lookalike pair decides to hit the bar so they can flaunt their new relationship in Ted's face.

Check out Brit's return to How I Met Your Mother, Monday, May 12, 8:30PM, ET on CBS.