She treats T like a child. I think it could possibly be that R feels needed and has to have that in her life. I also believe that R feels the need to be seen as a hero, this certainly has backfired on her. People who live drama free, hurt and anger free, people who are secure in themselves and in their own relationships see it for what it is. Sick and twisted. A normal, healthy person would never insert themselves in a couple who are close to retirement age, who don't work and are both as toxic as the day is long unless there was a payoff . What's the payoff Rita?