Good ML makes me feel close, connected, and deeply loved. And yes, I care about the O. Not that it's essential, it's just that it's so good! I've always had O with any sexual encounter, no exceptions (in fact, I'm good for 5, or even 10, O's in a day, if only I could find the dream woman who was willing). Of course, I've been aroused in situations, like kissing in public, where I don't want an O, but that's still pleasurable.
So I would say an O isn't absolutely essential, but only like a chocolate cake without icing might still be good, but not as good. But anticipating the O as the culmination of the encounter is certainly my expectation, and I'd probably be frustrated if I didn't reach it.
