When all is said and done, we're animals. Human animals, with refines senses. Which only means we feel that much more, with much more definition. To create a hero and heroine who aren't driven to touch and explore each other is cowardly and a cop-out. In today's world, caution rules, which only makes the romance novel more enthralling.
Readers can find hot, sizzling, romantic sex through their favorite characters.
But it is important to our lives all the same. Real romance isn't centered solely on emotions or mechanics. The two must work together and become entwined to establish complete, uncompromising love. This is true of life, and I belive it should be true of written romance. As a writer, I want readers involved.