To optically couple a tether to a ribbonized distribution cable, a cut is made in the distribution cable, exposing the ribbons inside. The correct ribbon is located and spliced to a tether. A splice protection sleeve is applied to the splice and placed into the existing cut on the cable so as to be recessed within an outer boundary of the cable jacket. The buffer tube from the tether cable is also guided toward the cut and fixed in place. A breakout assembly is installed on the distribution cable to secure the tether to the distribution cable.