“– May be it is a “mental construction” that happens AUTOMATICALLY based on bhava.”
This makes sense to me. Taking the case of lemons in particular, you and I both experience the distinctive taste of lemon,but since childhood I love lemons, I eat them raw, pulp and all, while most people wince at just the thought of it. And if is is based on bhava (or, on second thoughts, on gati )then it will be no different for an Arahant. (i.e the distinction will persist if both you and I were Arahants)
Metta to all