Physical attraction is a key component of sexual attraction, not romantic. I agree you cannot force any type of attraction. Romantic attraction can be a key component in a relationship for some people if they're not aromantic. I don't know why you're trying to invalidity asexual and aromatic people. OP has stated they don't want to date their friend, they don't have to. But insinuating you can only have a caring relationship if you're physically attracted to someone is ridiculous. I have allo friends who have told me they don't think their partner is physically attractive, but likes them for other reasons. Physical attraction is not the be all and end all.