Abstract: A "floating" fiber storage assembly is provided for use with a fiber-optic cable joint that connects two or more cables. The device includes a fiber storage tray for storing the spliced optic fibers of the cables, although any fiber storage device (such as a cylinder) may be used. The fiber storage tray has a locking end with a connection interface, comprised of one or more locking cut-outs and locking tabs, for slidably engaging a terminating socket assembly. When the connection interface is slidably engaged with the terminating socket assembly, the fiber storage tray is loosely connected to the terminating socket assembly. To prevent the fiber storage tray and the terminating socket assembly from easily disengaging, a locking band may engage a substantially continuous locking groove formed when the storage tray and the socket assembly are loosely connected.